Financial Advisor in Reading
Patronus Partners provides independent financial advice from its offices at Arlington Business Park, Reading, and in the City of London, working with individuals and families across Reading and Berkshire.
The firm was founded in 2015 and remains owned by its staff. It has no in-house funds or products to sell, and recommendations are based solely on what suits each client.
Financial Advice in Reading
Reading is one of the largest towns in the South East and home to many national and international employers, with Elizabeth line and mainline services into London.
Many people in the area have changed employer several times during their careers and, as a result, hold a number of separate workplace pensions. It is not always clear what each one is worth, how it is invested or what it costs. We help clients bring this information together and decide whether to leave each pension where it is or combine some of them. Some older schemes carry guarantees or other benefits that would be lost on transfer, so each one is reviewed individually before any recommendation is made.
We work with clients in Reading, Caversham, Earley, Woodley, Tilehurst, Wokingham and Theale. Meetings can take place at our Reading office, by telephone or by video call.
What we do
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We review each client’s pensions, savings and investments together and set out a plan that makes good use of the allowances available, updating it as circumstances and legislation change.
We do not charge initial fees for financial advice.
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We build and manage portfolios with a long-term view, in line with each client’s goals and attitude to risk.
Because we have no in-house funds, investments are selected purely on their merits.
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Clients may also hold their investments with us on an execution-only basis through our trading and custody service.
Our traders also act for hedge funds and family offices.
“We are all escapees from large firms and feel that clients no longer want the bland industry stereotype but prefer a smaller firm whose interests are aligned with theirs. The industry is ever- homogenising and unfortunately seems to focus more on shareholders than on clients".
— James Barton, Spear’s magazine.
The Unspoken Truth…
is that large pension advice firms are often sub-optimal for their clients.
As an independent pension advisor we are not constrained by being tied to our own in-house funds, looking after too many clients and nor are we under relentless shareholder pressure for revenue growth – all of which are detrimental to clients.
Our clients receive truly independent advice about their pensions in an unbiased way.
We only ever offer what we believe to be the best in class in order to deliver the best outcome for our clients.
"Patronus’ from the original Latin, is a person who stood as a protector to another, who was called his ‘client’. It struck a chord with us.”
— Paul Kavanagh CEO
Why Choose an Independent Financial Advisor in Reading?
Independence
We are owned by our staff rather than outside investors, and we do not set sales targets.
Freedom
We are free to recommend providers and investments from across the market.
Performance
Whilst we cannot guarantee that past performance will be repeated, since inception, our portfolios have performed better than the industry benchmark.
Experience
The team has held senior positions at banks, hedge funds and investment firms.
Close Relationships
We work with a limited number of clients, which gives us time to understand each client’s circumstances properly.
Fees
Our fees are explained and agreed in advance, and there is no initial charge for financial advice.
How We Can Help
We can advise on areas including:
Reviewing workplace pensions from previous employers
Deciding whether to combine pensions or leave them in place
Investment management across pensions, ISAs and general investment accounts
Making full use of pension, ISA and other tax allowances
Retirement planning
Inheritance tax planning
Financial Advice FAQs
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Not necessarily. Combining pensions can make them easier to manage and may reduce charges, but some older schemes include guarantees or benefits that would be lost on transfer. Each pension should be checked before any decision is made.
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Yes. Our Berkshire office is at Arlington Business Park, Reading, and meetings can also be held by telephone or video call. We also have an office in the City of London.
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Yes. The initial consultation is free of charge, and there are no initial fees for financial advice.
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Paul Kavanagh
Director
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Jeremy Steinson
Director
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S-J Kavanagh
Operations
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![Man wearing glasses sitting at a table with abstract art in the background.]()
James Barton
Investment Director
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John Prior
Director, CIO
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Kareem Khouri
Director, COO
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Dan Dowding
Head of Wealth Management
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Penny Rooney
Head of Compliance
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Richard Griffiths
Trading Manager
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Harriet Harrison
Operations
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Jonathan Jackson
Head of Research
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James Blackmore
Trader
Arrange a Free Consultation
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“One of the top 10 Wealth Managers in the UK. Barton is a dichotomy... An affable bonhomie, but with a sharp, disruptive, forward-thinking mind. His preference for questioning the rules, combined with his friendly nature, is why clients seek his insightful advice and why he is regarded as one of the top practitioners in the industry"
— James Barton Investment Director Review in Spear’s
Berkshire
1650 Arlington Business Park, Reading, Berkshire. RG7 4SA
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Reading has grown into one of the UK’s most dynamic regional economies. With its blend of thriving technology companies, professional services, and strong commuter links to London, it attracts ambitious individuals and families who want their finances managed with the same energy the town itself projects. In such a fast-moving environment, working with a qualified financial advisor in Reading can make all the difference between drifting with the market and progressing towards clear financial objectives.
What Sets Financial Advice Apart from Wealth Management
While wealth management often focuses on high-level strategies for affluent families and individuals, financial advice is about day-to-day clarity and structure. A financial advisor helps you:
Define achievable objectives – from buying your first home to preparing for retirement.
Prioritise competing goals – such as reducing debt while still saving for the future.
Plan for life’s changes – children’s education, inheritance, or a career move to London.
Protect against uncertainty – ensuring your income and assets are safeguarded.
Where wealth management may take a broader view of assets, financial advice makes the big picture practical and actionable.
The Value of Local Expertise in Reading
Reading’s local economy influences the type of advice residents often require. A good financial advisor here understands:
Technology & business-driven income – stock options, bonuses, and irregular cash flows are standard in Reading’s tech and finance sectors.
Commuter economics – balancing the costs and opportunities of working in London while living in Reading.
Property concentration – for many families, homes in Reading and nearby towns represent their largest financial asset.
Retirement pressures – with rising living costs and longer life expectancies, ensuring pensions are efficient and sustainable is critical.
By factoring in these realities, financial advice in Reading becomes far more relevant and practical.
Patronus Partners: Independent Advice, Tailored to You
At Patronus Partners, we believe financial advice must be:
Independent – we are not tied to specific providers, so recommendations are based on suitability, not sales.
Transparent – fees and services are explained clearly, ensuring you know exactly what you receive.
Personal – no two clients have the same ambitions, so advice is structured around your priorities, not a standard template.
Ongoing – regular reviews ensure your strategy remains aligned as your circumstances evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a financial advisor if I already have a pension and an ISA?
Yes. An advisor brings everything together into a coordinated plan, checking that your pension, ISA, and other investments are working efficiently towards your long-term goals.Is financial advice only for wealthy people?
No. Many clients begin seeking advice when buying their first property, starting a family, or planning for retirement. Sound financial planning benefits every stage of life.How do I choose the right financial advisor in Reading?
Check the FCA registration, ask about independence, and consider whether their approach aligns with your values. It’s also important to feel comfortable with the individual you’ll be working with in the long term.How often should I meet with my advisor?
At least once a year, though more frequent reviews may be appropriate during times of economic uncertainty or personal change.What makes Patronus Partners different?
We combine local knowledge of Reading’s unique economic drivers with the independence and professionalism of a boutique advisory firm.Useful Resources
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Verify an advisor’s regulatory status.
Reading Borough Council – Local developments and community updates.
MoneyHelper – Government-backed financial guidance.
Pensions Advisory Service – Support for pension and retirement planning.
Investopedia – Independent financial education.
Begin the Conversation
Your finances deserve the same careful planning as your career and family life. If you live or work in Reading and want clear, professional guidance, Patronus Partners is here to help you take control of your financial future with confidence.
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