Edinburgh financial planner unveils transition plan three years after MBO
“When Gordon and I completed the buyout, we wanted to create a business that would endure” – Mark Dobson
An Edinburgh-based financial advisory firm has increased its turnover by 40 per cent, expanded its team and laid out a succession plan three years after completing a management buyout.
Seven Street Wealth provides bespoke financial advice to individuals, families, trusts, corporates and charities. Established in 2000 as an independent sister company of Chiene + Tait LLP, the firm was acquired by its management team in 2023 and subsequently rebranded as Seven Street Wealth.
Since the buyout, the business, which also has a London office, has made significant investments in technology, planning infrastructure and specialist expertise that underpin its client proposition. These investments are said to have strengthened the firm’s ability to help clients navigate “an increasingly complex financial and political landscape”, while preserving the personalised service that defines its boutique business model.
The management buyout was led by managing director Mark Dobson and director Gordon Birrell. This week, Birrell announced his intention to retire in December 2028, marking the beginning of a planned succession process designed to ensure continuity for clients.
Under the arrangements, Dobson will acquire Birrell’s minority shareholding and continue leading the business, which has grown from 12 to 17 people since the 2023 buyout.
Dobson said: “Gordon has been a trusted colleague and friend for more than 20 years. The relationships he has built with clients over that time reflect the care, professionalism and personal commitment he brings to his work every day.
“When Gordon and I completed the buyout, we wanted to create a business that would endure - one that remained independent, looked after its clients properly and gave good people the opportunity to build fulfilling careers. The strength of Seven Street Wealth today is a direct result of that approach.
“We have experienced advisers ready to take on greater responsibility, and another generation of talented professionals developing behind them,” he added. “That depth of talent gives us real confidence for the future and, most importantly, means clients can be confident they will continue to receive the same high standards of advice, care and personal service for many years to come.”
Birrell said: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, but I am equally proud of the people who will take the business forward. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside colleagues who have grown, developed and become exceptional professionals in their own right.
“While retirement is still some way off, there is great comfort in knowing that the relationships I have built with clients over many years will continue in the hands of people I know and trust.”
The transition will be supported by the firm’s next generation of financial advisers, who will gradually take on more responsibilities over the next two years.
Liane Cox joined the business in 2024 and has 23 years’ experience in the industry. Jonathan Pryde and Ryan Forrest have dedicated the last decade to learning their trade and developing their skills.
Seven Street has also expanded its service offering since the buyout. Chartered tax consultant Hazel Gough joined the business in 2023, bringing specialist expertise in tax planning for wealth preservation and intergenerational wealth transfer. Earlier this year, Nicola McDevitt was appointed to the newly created role of training and competence manager.
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