Beard & Coles Financial Practice: Solutions

Matthew Beard

Matthew Beard started his career in financial services in 1989, having previously operated in the catering industry, his last position being that of head chef at a country manor house hotel. His role within Beard & Coles is that of sales and marketing director.

Born in 1966, he is happily married with two sons and a daughter, and lives in a small hamlet on the north west Hants/Wilts border. His spare time is mostly taken up with family life, however hobbies include walking, and the husbandry of rare breed poultry. Contact Matthew

John Coles

John moved into the financial services industry in 1990, after many years working as a director of a small but successful retail and publishing business serving the needs of  aviation enthusiast’s throughout the world. No longer active in advising clients, John and his team run the administration, sales support and regulatory compliance functions of the Beard & Coles companies, ensuring that all clients receive a high level of support and that accurate, up to date information is always available.

Born in 1944, John lives with his wife in North Hampshire. Spare time is taken up entertaining eight grandchildren from his two daughters, and following his continuing aviation interests which includes authoring regular publications on the subject. Contact John

Chris Downham

Chris joined the life assurance & pensions industry in 1988 after three years with the Halifax. He worked for Equity & Law and stayed with them through many changes including their takeover by AXA. After fulfilling many senior management roles within AXA Chris joined Beard & Coles as an advisor in October 2003.

In April 2005 Chris became a Director and Partner within the business. As well as dealing with his own clients he is responsible for sales management within Beard & Coles, as well as assisting in overall business strategy and direction.

Born in 1968, Chris lives in a small village in Wiltshire and in his spare time he Captains the First XI of Calne Cricket Club. He also likes walking with his dog along the local canal, and is well known in many of the local hostelries. Contact Chris