About Us

As we are independent, we offer impartial and unbiased advice from the whole of the market. Our charges are based on the work that we do and these are clearly set out and discussed during our initial meetings.

Experienced People

We employ and work with experienced, capable people who are good at what they do and take pride in the service they provide to our clients’.

Our clients can benefit from our ability to offer advice on the broadest range of products and services, whether that be retirement planning, recommendations for investment purposes, life assurance, inheritance tax planning or cashflow modelling helping you make your financial goals a reality.

  • Independent & Unbiased Advice
  • Transparency of Charges
  • Value for Money
  • Excellent Ongoing Service

Meet The Team

Kevin Benstead

Kevin Benstead

Director & Financial Adviser

Since graduating with an Economics degree from Cardiff University, I have worked all my life in the financial services sector with many years managerial experience in a bank and insurance company. I took the decision to work on behalf of clients, not an organisation, in January 2006 when I became an Independent Financial Adviser. In January 2017, I became directly authorised with the Financial Conduct Authority, thus Kevin Benstead IFA Limited was born.

I see my role as providing clients with an excellent financial planning service which will enable them to achieve their objectives throughout their lifetime. In order to do this, I need to understand their current and future financial needs and will individually tailor a bespoke solution for each client.

Away from work I take a keen interest in sport, especially football where I am a season ticket holder of Manchester United and am the chairman of my local cricket club where, despite retiring from playing 4 years ago, am now playing again, as long as my legs allow me. Most important to me is spending time with my family.

 Darren Cooper

Darren Cooper

Office Manager

I have been involved in financial services since 2009 after a long career in operational management across several sectors.

I first gained experience and knowledge in Financial Services working for a firm of financial advisers in Alderley Edge for 6 years and then spent 18 months working for an advisory firm in Manchester that focus on ethical investments.

When you contact our office, it is likely that I will be the first person you speak to and my main role is to help provide clients’ with an efficient and professional service.

Away from the office I am interested in most sports, but especially football, snooker and rugby union. My team of choice is Manchester City which often leads to heated debates as Kevin supports some team in red that I forget the name of….

I enjoy cooking and love walking in the countryside which I am passionate about preserving.

Christine Howard

Christine Howard

Administration Assistant

I have over 30 years’ experience of working in Finance and operational management and have worked with systems and data during this time which assists in my role working at Kevin Benstead IFA.

My role is part time and supports Darren in ensuring that all our clients receive an approachable, efficient and professional service. Away from work I enjoy time spent with my family, travel and walking in the Peak District and Lake District.