Co-Founder Paul McKernan announces his retirement

Co-Founder Paul McKernan announces his retirement

McKernan reflects on two decades with the Lifewealth Group 

There have been a number of once-in-a-lifetime historical events that have transpired in my 23 years with Lifewealth — events like Y2K, 9/11, the GFC, and now of course a global pandemic. Although surviving each of these has been an achievement, it’s not what makes the last 23 years memorable. 

What has made my time at Lifewealth so memorable, and what gives me a great feeling of pride, are the relationships I have with so many of our wonderful clients. When Phil and I started the Lifewealth Group — McKernan Ellis Financial Services as it was then — we knew it was important that we had the technical skills and support to look after our clients’ needs. But it was equally important that we could be trusted by our clients and rewarded with referrals.  

It is so pleasing to look at the long list of incredible clients, many of whom have been with us for many of the last 23 years, who have not only stayed loyal but have trusted us to look after the financial, taxation and planning needs of their family, friends and colleagues. 

It is humbling to reflect on the many personal events our clients have shared with us over the years — including some of the happiest and some of the saddest times. I won’t single out any of these shared memories, however I will say, it has always been heartening to personally receive or hear from the team the wonderful feedback we have received for the support and peace of mind we have been able to give our clients. 

Of course, when you grow a business you can’t succeed unless you have the right people helping you. Over the 23 years we have been fortunate enough to be able to employ around 50 to 60 people, many of whom were early in their careers. It has been so rewarding to see our staff learn and grow in their time with us. 

I’m extremely proud of the current Lifewealth team, the connection they have with each other and the way they have adopted the shared values of the business. When I reflect on where we have come from, I see a strong leadership group supporting a team of inspiring young people as keen as Phil and I were from day one. to make sure our clients have peace of mind. 

As I have transitioned towards retirement over the last couple of years, and more so in recent months, it has been most gratifying to see the confidence our clients have in the team to carry on the work. I too am confident that Lifewealth remains in very good hands. 

I didn’t really know what the future held for Jayne and I in the early days of the business, and it is only now that I can pause to reflect on what has become our Lifewealth family — our partners, staff and clients. I’m proud the legacy of Lifewealth will live on, and I’m very excited to see what the next chapter brings. 

Paul McKernan