WHO I HELP
Wealthy families. Business owners. Professionals. Multi-generational families.
HOW I HELP
Wealth transition planning. Family governance. Succession planning. Legacy alignment. Mentoring.
“HELPING FAMILIES TURN WEALTH INTO WISDOM.”
Michael Aitken is based in our London Gatwick office, with over 30 years of experience in financial planning. He specialises in guiding wealthy families, business owners, and professionals through significant life transitions, whether succession, retirement, or passing on wealth to the next generation.
Much of Michael’s work involves advising families on how to transition wealth across generations in a way that strengthens both their finances and their relationships. This includes facilitating family meetings, running in-depth planning sessions, and creating governance structures that support open, constructive dialogue between generations. His aim is to help families align their wealth with their values, transforming it from a purely financial asset into a lasting legacy of stewardship, purpose, and shared vision.
A PURPOSE-DRIVEN APPROACH TO PLANNING
“I’ve always been driven by purpose. Early in my career, I realised that financial planning could be about so much more than numbers – it could shape lives and legacies. My lightbulb moment came when I saw the impact of helping a family align their wealth with their values, and how that clarity gave them confidence in their future.
Over the years, I’ve worked alongside families at every stage of their journey, from those just beginning to think about succession to those navigating the complexities of multi-generational decision-making. I bring curiosity, empathy, and structure to every conversation, helping people get clear on what matters most, and building plans rooted in purpose, not just performance. My role isn’t simply to manage wealth; it’s to help people create a framework for decision-making that will guide them for years to come.”
LISTENING FIRST, ADVISING SECOND
“Deep listening is my non-negotiable. People often tell me things they haven’t shared with anyone else, not because of the advice I can offer, but because I create the space for them to feel heard without judgement.
I once worked with a family who were struggling to communicate across generations. By introducing structured conversations and helping them build a shared vision, we not only improved their planning outcomes but also transformed their family dynamics. Seeing them talk like a family again, that’s when I know I’ve made a real difference.”
HELPING FAMILIES THROUGH TRANSITION
“Many of my clients are going through significant transitions, succession, retirement, the sale of a business, or passing on wealth to the next generation. These moments can be emotionally charged as well as financially complex.
One recent example involved a family with no clear succession plan and siblings who weren’t seeing eye to eye. By facilitating workshops and co-creating a family charter, we were able to build alignment, mutual understanding, and a clear path forward. Helping families find common ground and move forward together is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.”
PLANNING BEYOND THE NUMBERS
“The biggest misconception about my profession is that financial planning is just about money. In reality, the best planning is about clarity, values, and confidence; money is simply the fuel that allows those things to happen.
Helping wealth creators shift from control to stewardship can be challenging, especially for those who’ve built their wealth from the ground up. My role is to help them see the long-term benefits of inclusive planning – not just in securing financial outcomes, but in strengthening family relationships, building trust, and giving the next generation the tools and confidence to succeed. When that happens, wealth becomes more than a number; it becomes a legacy.”
AUTHOR, MENTOR, AND ADVOCATE FOR PURPOSEFUL PLANNING
Alongside his work as a financial planner and mentor, Michael is also the author of ‘The Levelheaded Investor’ – a book designed to equip you with the tools, mindsets, and knowledge needed to create the future you want, supported by a realistic and actionable financial plan.
With this book as a trusted guide, you can become savvy, level-headed investors, empowered to take your first steps towards financial security and a life of wellbeing and fulfilment for you and your families.
