At Blue Sky, the team has always believed that the strength of their service lies in the strength of their people.
Behind every recommendation, every carefully crafted financial plan, is a team that truly cares about doing things properly and about helping clients live the lives they want.
Blue Sky is now almost three years into its journey as an Employee Owned Trust, and that decision continues to shape who the company is and how it works. The firm chose employee ownership to protect its independence, empower its people, and ensure that client care stays at the heart of everything it does. (You can read more about that decision here.)
As Blue Sky continues to grow, the team is thrilled to share some exciting changes within the business, and to celebrate what feels like the strongest and most experienced version of Blue Sky yet.
Welcoming New Team Members
Blue Sky is delighted to have welcomed Euan Baker-Milne as its new Paraplanner. Euan brings a calm, analytical mindset and impressive technical knowledge, but it’s his curiosity and collaborative approach that have made him such a natural fit within the team. He is already playing a key role in the preparation and development of clients’ financial plans.
Joining the Planner Support team earlier this year is Alex James, who brings drive, adaptability and a great sense of humour to the office. He has become a vital part of Blue Sky’s day-to-day operations, keeping things moving smoothly and ensuring clients continue to experience the high standard of service the firm is known for.
In recent weeks, Blue Sky has also welcomed Lucy Tuttle in the role of Senior Planner Support Administrator. With over 25 years’ experience in financial services, and having worked with Gary and Angela over 20 years ago in a previous business, Lucy brings depth of knowledge, exceptional efficiency, and a natural energy that uplifts those around her. The team is delighted to have her onboard.
Evolving Roles and Honouring Long Service
Alongside the new joiners, Johanna Payne Knauf has stepped into a newly created role as Operations Officer. With a sharp eye for detail, a love of systems, and a brilliant attitude, she is already bringing new clarity and structure to the business. Johanna takes over from Peter Brown, who retired earlier this summer after more than 12 years with Blue Sky.
Peter has been an integral part of the Blue Sky journey. His practical approach, unwavering reliability and deep loyalty helped shape the business into what it is today.
COO, Lesley Keets, shared:
“Working with Pete over the last couple of years has been a real pleasure. From day one, he made me feel welcome and was always generous with his knowledge and time. We shared plenty of laughs and a mutual love of fitness, which sparked many great conversations. I’ll miss our weekly catch ups, but I wish him all the very best in his well-earned retirement.”
Looking Ahead
This is a new chapter for the Blue Sky team — one that feels full of possibility. As CEO Gary Neild puts it:
“We’ve never had a stronger team. The level of skill and commitment in every area of the business is remarkable, and it’s strengthening our culture where people genuinely care about what they do, and who they do it for. That’s exactly what we want for our clients.”
Next year, Blue Sky will be adding one or two Financial Planners to the team as well. Those who are keen to explore a different kind of IFA — one rooted in emotional intelligence, trust, and long-term impact — are encouraged to get in touch.