Why I’m confident Macquarie will keep us ahead of the curve

Finding the best of both worlds

It’s a big change when you quit your job as a Vice President at Merrill Lynch, and become a Practice Manager at a small financial planning firm. For Julia Schortinghuis, the transition was hugely enjoyable.

“I used to present at industry conferences on portfolio construction. Suddenly, I was working directly with clients, helping them to achieve their financial goals.”

The work was fresh and exciting, but Julia was very much aware that she could no longer draw on the expertise and powerful resources of a big financial institution.

She managed to find the best of both worlds when she started working in partnership with Macquarie in 2009.

“We’d had a connection with Macquarie from the beginning because many of our clients were already using their Cash Management Account. Then we started looking at their investment platform.”

A full-service investment platform was a key part of Julia’s growth strategy for the practice.

“They have an excellent understanding of our business. They know who we are and what motivates us. In our business, team culture is a critical success factor. Macquarie fits right in. They’re truly exceptional people, with a strong work ethic – who we trust to have our back. What’s been interesting is that, when team members go on parental leave or get promoted, the people coming in have been just as impressive.”

Two years ago, Lighthouse introduced Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs) to its clients via the Wrap platform. Julia says the process was smooth and well managed.

“The support Macquarie gives us is market leading. Nothing is too much trouble. They always go the extra mile. The team is very authentic and genuine about helping us to succeed as a business. If there’s ever an issue, Macquarie always deals with it promptly and professionally. And even after it’s been resolved they follow up to make sure we’re happy. They’re really proactive. Always asking how they can improve. It’s a genuine relationship.”

“We regularly run strategic innovation ‘light the house’ days and have had Macquarie join us to be a part of that. They get an even deeper understanding of our business so they can align their services with our goals – and we get their professional advice drawing on what they’re seeing in the market.

Julia also appreciates the connection to world-class expertise. “Macquarie gives us access to leading technical specialists within the industry. When I attend their workshops, the speakers are always of the highest quality.”

She regularly recommends Macquarie to other planners: “I tell them it’s mutually beneficial. You can be confident that Macquarie will work in your interest to help you help your clients.”