Case Study: Why Keyte Ltd chose Wren Sterling

Henry Blunt

Wren Sterling identified Keyte Ltd as a strong cultural fit. The business was led by an entrepreneurial, highly respected industry figure who was motivated to keep growing rather than stand still, supported by a stable and loyal employee base, robust processes and good data, a South-West location we were keen to retain, and average client AUM in line with our target market.

As an owner-managed business, Robin and his team were also wearing multiple hats and we saw an opportunity to help them focus on the parts of the role they enjoyed most, while gaining the operational efficiency of being part of a larger group. We also saw an opportunity to enhance client outcomes through access to Magnus, our sister investment management business, unlocking additional value for both the firm and its clients.

Robin Keyte, Chartered Financial Planner, and ex-Managing Director of Keyte Ltd said: “We chose Wren Sterling because of the strength and breadth of its proposition and its clear commitment to supporting advisers and clients over the long term. This move allows us to enhance what we offer to clients while reducing complexity for our team and importantly continuing as independent financial advisers.

“In the short time that we’ve been a part of the business, we’ve seen Magnus create an ESG MPS, which has given a significant proportion of our investors a helpful additional option for their ESG portfolios, offering more choice, and we’re looking ahead to creating further value for clients through a range of initiatives.

“Wren Sterling is also an open-minded organisation. We’re now taking some of our operational practices into Wren Sterling and improving the way they work. What’s more, we felt supported as a team throughout. There was on the ground support leading up to completion and immediately after, helping me and my colleagues to transition to a new environment. There are always bumps in the road and moments of stress, but when both sides are committed to the spirit of cooperation, it’s remarkable what can be achieved in a short space of time.”

Henry Blunt
About the Author

Henry Blunt is Wren Sterling’s Acquisitions Director. Henry joined Wren Sterling in November 2021 following eight years at Retiring IFA, where he was Managing Director for the past six years. Henry previously established and developed the Retiring Accountancy brand in the North of England. Henry is skilled in every aspect of mergers and acquisitions activity with a deep understanding of vendor motivation. He has advised acquiring parties on hundreds of deals, focusing on the long-term viability of the deal by prioritising the future treatment of clients and employees. Henry holds a BSc from Newcastle University.