About Strategic
Helping you live life to the full
At Strategic Financial Planning, we believe financial planning is about more than just numbers; it’s about giving you the freedom to live life on your terms. Based in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, we are a fully independent financial planning firm dedicated to providing expert, clear and personalised advice to individuals, families, and business owners.
Proud to be certified, chartered and independent
Our Managing Director, Oliver Moore, is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)® and Chartered Financial Planner, bringing over 30 years of experience to the firm. His Chartered Financial Planner status, awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), represents the highest level of expertise in financial planning. These qualifications reflect our dedication to professional excellence, ethical practice, and continuous learning.
As a fully independent firm, we are not tied to any financial service providers, meaning our advice is always impartial and based solely on what’s best for you. We take the time to understand your story, your goals, and your vision for the future, helping you make confident financial decisions at every stage of life.

- Chartered Financial Planner
- Certified Financial Planner
- G60 – Pension Transfer Specialist
- K10 – Retirement Options
- K20 – Pension Investment Options
- AF4 – Investment Planning
- G10 – Taxation and Trusts
- STEP Certificate – Trusts and Estate Planning
Our purpose & principles
Purpose statement
We believe every person can be free to live life to the full.
Guiding principles
We put you first
Your needs and aspirations shape everything we do.
We act with integrity
Honest, ethical advice is at the core of our approach.
We respect the dignity of all
We treat every person with care, professionalism, and respect.
Our team
Our team is committed to helping you achieve financial clarity and security. We combine deep expertise with a personal, client-focused approach to deliver advice tailored to your goals.

Oliver Moore CFP™ Chartered FCSI (Financial Planning), Chartered Wealth Manager
Oliver leads Strategic Financial Planning with over 30 years of experience as a Chartered and Certified Financial Planner. With specialist qualifications across pensions, investments, and estate planning, he believes in taking a holistic approach to financial planning and looks to understand every aspect of a client’s life to provide tailored, personal advice that aligns with their goals and values. His structured yet personalised approach helps clients see what’s possible with their resources, giving them clarity and confidence in their financial future.
Outside of work
Oliver is passionate about his faith and music and enjoys playing the piano in his free time. He also loves sport and is part of the Leigh on Sea Striders running club (LOSS), and regularly swims in the local estuary! Most of all, he loves spending time with his family and taking holidays to Spain
Oliver is also passionate about helping people in need and is a trustee of Kenya Orphans Fund and Uganda Project (KOFUP).
Favourite quote
“A penny for your thoughts!” – something my mum always asked me, as her ‘daydreamer’ son! And now I find myself asking my kids!
You might not expect
My favourite car is my 26 year old bright green campervan!

Thomas Woodyatt Dip PFS, Financial Adviser
Thomas joined Strategic Financial Planning in 2021, bringing 16 years of banking experience, including a decade in management and leadership. As a financial adviser, he is passionate about helping clients achieve their financial goals through expert, tailored strategies for investments, savings, and retirement planning. His attention to detail and client-focused approach ensures each client is supported and empowered to make informed decisions and secure financial independence.
Outside of work
Thomas is a devoted family man, spending his weekends at children’s clubs and football matches with his three young boys. He also has a passion for photography and enjoys capturing and editing images in his spare time.
Favourite quote:
“For with God, nothing shall be impossible.” – Luke 1:37
You might not expect
Thomas holds a qualification in Swedish massage!

Danielle Speirs , Development Manager
Danielle plays a vital role at Strategic Financial Planning, supporting the team, driving business projects, and assisting with regulatory reporting. With over three decades of experience in financial services, she has worked across various sectors, from credit card investigations to company pension administration, before joining Strategic in 2003.
Outside of work
Danielle enjoys cooking and cherishes time spent around the table with family and friends. She also plays an active role in her community and enjoys taking part in social events. A profound experience was walking the 500-mile Camino de Santiago as a solo pilgrim in 2018, which deepened her resilience.
Favourite quote
“The world doesn’t need what women have, it needs what women are.” – Edith Stein
An interesting memory
Danielle was jointly awarded the Drama Shield in high school, and decades later, was bowled over when her former drama teacher recounted the play, the part and the performance!

Michela Brownlee , Client Support
Michela plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and organised experience for clients at Strategic Financial Planning. With nearly a decade of experience in financial services and a background in banking, she is often the first point of contact for clients, providing essential administrative support to the team and assisting with the day-to-day running of the office. Her strong communication skills and attention to detail help maintain efficiency across all aspects of client service.
Outside of work
Michela enjoys cooking and baking, specialising in traditional Italian cuisine. She also loves long, leisurely walks along the seafront, practising yoga, training her dog and spending quality time with family, especially her two daughters. She takes great pride in the years she dedicated to being a full-time mum, raising two grounded and accomplished young women. Michela comes from an Italian background and grew up in a family-run hairdressing business, where she started her first profession.
Favourite Quote
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." – Nelson Mandela
A piece of her story
Michela loves dancing and has completed two beginner dance classes.

Gemma Older , Paraplanner
Gemma has been a valued member of the Strategic Financial Planning team since 2007. As a paraplanner, she provides crucial support to financial advisers by assisting with research, analysis, and the preparation of financial plans. She also ensures that recommendations are implemented smoothly, helping clients receive well-structured, clear financial guidance. With a problem-solving mindset and a strong attention to detail, Gemma plays a key role in delivering a high standard of service.
Outside of work
Gemma is a passionate music fan, particularly of heavy metal, and loves attending gigs whenever she can. She also enjoys socialising with friends and family and spending time with her two young daughters, who keep her on her toes. A keen traveller, she spent 10 months exploring the world at 25, an experience that gave her a lifelong appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
Favourite Quote
"Be kind! Treat others how you would like to be treated."
A little-known fact
As a child, Gemma appeared on TV with Timmy Mallett!
Let’s Talk About Your Future
Your financial journey starts with a conversation. Whether you’re planning for retirement, growing your investments, or protecting your legacy, we’re here to help.
Speak with an expert