Paul Emery

Spear’s Review

As divisional director overseeing private client strategy at UK wealth management behemoth St. James’s Place, Paul Emery holds a key role.

Historically, St. James’s Place has not often been considered a major player in the HNW and UHNW segments of the wealth management industry. However, the firm’s private client division is said to already account for around 15 per cent of its £181 billion in assets under management – a figure that Emery and his colleagues are working to increase.

Amid some critical press coverage and questions as to SJP’s ability to bear the demands of new Consumer Duty regulation, the wider business has a challenge on its hands. But in 2024 CEO Mark FitzPatrick set out his intention to build on the firm’s existing private client and HNW coverage, further strengthening its proposition and strategy.   

Insiders expect deed to match word, with increased investment and perhaps some development of its private client brand. This may help SJP to bring even more proven professionals and ‘partner practices’ under its banner.