Siobhan Brookes & Thomas Folan, Co-Founders, Folan Brookes

Engaging for success

When Siobhan and Thomas Folan launched Folan Brookes, they were already familiar with The Openwork Partnership. Having previously worked within a network practice, they saw the strength of the proposition and the culture first-hand. 

 “Our first port of call when setting up Folan Brookes was to remain with The Openwork Partnership”  

Initially, Folan Brookes focused on mortgage and protection advice. But with support from The Business School, Thomas gained his Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning and began offering full financial advice in the business’ second year.  

“We wanted to ensure the mortgage and protection side was solid before expanding into wealth. Now we deliver holistic advice and are looking to grow on both fronts.” 

The perfect match 

Openwork’s recruitment services also helped the firm evolve.  

“We brought Stacey on board in 2023 with the help of the recruitment team, and she’s still with us, thriving. That says a lot about their ability to match the right people to the right businesses.”  

More recently, Emily joined from another Openwork firm after reaching out directly.  

“It was perfect timing – Thomas was stepping back from mortgages to focus on wealth, and Emily could pick up where he left off.” 

Development first 

Training and development have been integral to the journey. Both Siobhan and Thomas attended the “Route to Principal” course when they were new to the role, giving them plenty to learn.  

“It helped us with our business management skills; how to juggle wearing all the different hats you wear as both a business owner and an adviser, and how to manage and develop a successful team.” 

The wider team also benefits from the development opportunities.  

“Stacey attended Protection 101 with the PDM team, which really built her confidence. We always encourage the team to explore the Business School and use it for personal as well as professional development.” 

Strengthening connections 

Culturally, being a part of Openwork has fostered a supportive environment for growth.  

“Our PDM, Chris Miles, has been the key to our success – pointing us in the right direction, to the right people, creating links, and saving us time. This support has meant we’ve been able to grow our business year on year.” 

The support isn’t just ‘head office’ either it’s peer-to-peer.  

“We’ve developed strong relationships with other advisers across the network, often bouncing ideas off them, or asking what they would do in different situations. It’s been incredibly rewarding and shows what can be achieved by collaborating with like-minded people. Enabling us to grow the options and offer a better service for our clients. We have also got to know and become friends with many more Openwork advisers.” 

Continuing with impact 

Looking to the future, Folan Brookes is focused on deepening client relationships and offering even more comprehensive long-term planning.  

“In partnership with Openwork, we’re building a network of likeminded local businesses who share our values. It’s rewarding work, and Openwork will continue to be a key part of that journey – through training, business development support, and their strong, flexible proposition.” 

And for anyone thinking about joining? Their advice is simple: 

“Go for it. Engage with the support available. Because the more you engage, the more you’ll get out of it.”