about us

Meet the team

Watson French rely on a young, capable team to act as first point of contact for clients.

The goal in 2011 was to recruit five trainees over a period of seven years and mentor each of them to Chartered Financial Adviser qualification. This has reduced the average age of our advisers and enabled us to achieve a strong succession for the continued success of the business.

Colleen Reynolds Associate IFA

Colleen joined Watson French as a graduate in 2017 and qualified with her Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning in 2020. She is now an integral member of the advice team which advises clients on all aspects of financial planning for individuals, trusts and companies alike.

Colleen is also an Education Champion in the Personal Finance Society’s My Personal Finance Skills programme. The programme aims to educate young people, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to be financially aware and empowered from early on.

Born and raised in South Africa, Colleen has a deep love for adventure and travel. She graduated from the University of Stellenbosch with a Bachelor of Arts and a PGCE.

Robert Dougherty Associate IFA

Robert joined the Watson French team in 2021 and is now working towards achieving chartered status.

Having previously completed a degree in finance and investment banking, he uses much of the knowledge he gained from this alongside his diploma studies to conduct investment research and produces the monthly asset commentary.

Robert also assists Chris and Stephen in other areas including pensions, savings and protection.

Ryan Carmedy Graduate Trainee IFA

Ryan is one of our graduate IFA’s, having joined Watson French in January 2023.

Ryan recently graduated with a degree in Economics from Durham University and has previously gained real-world experience at a discretionary asset management firm. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and paddleboarding and hopes to preserve the environment though sustainable investment choices.

Ryan is currently studying towards a diploma in Regulated Financial Planning alongside his day-to-day tasks, such as conducting investment research and producing annual valuation reports for our clients.

Charlotte Pearson Office Manager

Charlotte joined Watson French in 2018 as an administrator, working alongside Anna to provide a professional and friendly service to clients. Charlotte’s working background is diverse and brings a variety of experience to the team.

As Office Manager, she ensures the smooth running of the office on a day-to-day basis, providing administrative support and guidance to our advice team as well as managing company policies and procedures. Charlotte and our administrator Anna will often be your first point of contact at Watson French.

Charlotte is working towards her CertFS qualification from the Chartered Insurance Institute.

Anna Roberts Administrator

Anna joined the Watson French team in 2021. As an Administrator, her day-to-day duties include organising the business calendar and servicing new and existing clients. She is often a first point of contact for clients and is able to assist with any enquiries.

Anna holds a BA (Hons) degree in English from Royal Holloway, University of London. 

Harry Downing Graduate Trainee IFA

Harry is our latest Graduate Trainee IFA, having joined Watson French in April 2023.

Harry graduated with a degree in Business and Economics in May 2023 from California State University, Bakersfield.

Harry is currently studying towards the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning alongside his day-to-day tasks, such as conducting investment research and producing annual valuation reports for our clients.

He enjoys sports such as football and is passionate about how technology can be utilised to improve society.

Lucy Maloney Administrator

Lucy joined Watson French in May 2023 as an administrator to support both Charlotte and Anna in the day to day duties, servicing new and existing clients and to be the first point of contact for client enquiries.