W1M expands Private Client channels with senior hires
London, UK – Tuesday 14th April 2026 – W1M Wealth Management Ltd (“W1M”), the wealth and investment management firm for high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals and families, charities, and institutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris McGuinness, Jan Thompson and George Haggas to its Private Client channels.
These appointments come as the firm completes its acquisition of Vermeer Partners, taking W1M to circa £27 billion in AUM, up from £18 billion in June 2024 when Waverton and London & Capital merged. This strong growth has been underpinned by new demand for W1M’s integrated offering.
Chris McGuinness joins as a Portfolio Manager in the US Private Wealth team, bringing nearly 25 years’ experience advising private clients, specialising in US-connected clients. Reporting to Joshua Moss, Head of US Private Wealth, Chris rejoins the firm after eight years, having previously served as a Senior Portfolio Manager at London & Capital. After leaving London & Capital, he joined Arbuthnot Latham as a Senior Investment Manager, ultimately progressing to Director. Chris previously held investment roles at European Wealth Management and Coutts.
Reporting to Nick Hammond, Head of Private Wealth, Jan Thompson joins as a Wealth Manager from Quilter Cheviot Financial Planning, where she spent over nine years managing a diverse portfolio of HNW clients, including professionals, business owners and retirees. With over 20 years’ experience, Jan delivers expert tailored and analytical advice to private clients with complex wealth planning needs. She previously held roles at St James’s Place, Lloyds and Coutts.
Finally, George Haggas joins as a Portfolio Manager in the Financial Intermediary Office. Reporting to Alexandra Buchan-Heelas, Head of Financial Intermediary Office, George will focus on managing portfolios for trusts, companies and other structures. He joined Smith & Williamson in 2016 on the graduate training scheme, subsequently becoming part of Evelyn Partners, where he managed global equity and multi-asset portfolios for a wide range of clients and was responsible for the firm’s global chemical and UK fund research.
Rupert Elwes, Head of Private Clients at W1M, commented:
“I’m thrilled to expand W1M’s Private Client channels with the appointment of Chris, Jan and George, all of whom bring unparalleled expertise. Our impressive AUM growth since June 2024 is reflective of the surging demand we are receiving for an integrated offering that serves as one home for wealth and investment. Likewise, our continued ability to attract the best industry talent, including welcoming back former employees, clearly shows that advisers want to be a part of the truly unique and exciting proposition W1M is building.”
