Matthew Testa

“Understanding you is the key to unlocking your financial plan.”

I chose the long road to becoming a financial adviser – first, spending time in our administration team, then putting in the hard yards among our technical analysts before moving into advice. This provided me with strong foundations to be the best adviser I can be.

The instinct to do the groundwork properly comes from home. My grandparents moved to the UK from Italy in the early sixties and had to work hard to build a life here. That strong work ethic and determination passed to my parents, and then to me. It taught me the value of money and how financial planning can shape your future.

I joined Cullen Wealth (now Mattioli Woods) in 2016, after graduating with a first class honours from the University of Manchester and learned the business from the ground up. My experience has taught the importance of understanding the advice process from start to finish, from the initial phone call, all the way through to implementing the plan we have created together.

It means I never turn up unprepared or leave any stone unturned when reviewing your situation. My focus is on creating a bespoke financial plan specific to your own circumstances and plans.

The rest is about trust, built on small things done reliably. A prospective client once told me he was having an operation and would be in touch in the coming weeks. When I had not heard from him, I checked in gently to see how he was. He later said I was the only adviser who had taken the time to follow up and speak to him. That’s important – doing what you say you will, being honest when financial plans aren’t achievable and being a supportive ear to understand and address your financial worries.

Outside of work, I run in summer, play padel most weeks, and love good food and long walks. My wife and I enjoy travelling and are looking forward to our upcoming trip to New Zealand with further adventures to be planned soon.