Our Team

Stuart Stanford

APFS, IMC, CertCII (MP), CertPFS (DM)

Founder and Paraplanner

After identifying a demand for a more accessible approach to outsourced paraplanning, Root was established by its founder, Stuart Stanford. With more than 10 years’ experience working for a handful of IFAs, from small firms to nationwide companies: During this time, he occupied positions in operations management, business development and most recently paraplanning.

As a paraplanner, Stuart’s sole focus has been refining his technical skills, using them to produce comprehensive and meaningful reports. Stuart has gained experience with a wide range of provider platforms and planning systems, in addition to building a network of technical experts.

    • Chartered Financial Planner

    • Advanced Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning

    • Certificate in Discretionary Investment Management

    • Certificate in Mortgage Advice

    • Member of the CFA (UK) Institute

    • R01 - Financial Services and Ethics (CII)

    • R02 - Investment Principles and Risk (CII)

    • R03 - Personal Taxation (CII)

    • R04 - Pensions and Retirement Planning (CII)

    • R05 - Financial Protection (CII)

    • R06 - Financial Planning Practice (CII)

    • J10 - Discretionary Investment Management (CII)

    • J12 - Securities Advice and Dealing (CII)

    • CF6 - Mortgage Advice (CII)

    • LP1 - Life and Pensions Customer Operations (CII)

    • LP3 - Life and Pensions Principles and Practice (CII)

    • AF1 - Personal Tax and Trust Planning (CII)

    • AF4 - Investment Planning (CII)

    • AF8 - Retirement income planning (CII)

    • AF5 - Financial planning process (CII)

    • Investment Management Certificate - Unit 1 (CFA)

    • Investment Management Certificate - Unit 2 (CFA)

Abdul Hadi

Apprentice Paraplanner

Abdul began his career in financial services after completing his A-Levels, choosing the professional qualification route to gain practical experience from the outset. He is currently working towards his Diploma in Regulated Financial Advice (CII) with the long-term goal of becoming a Chartered Financial Planner.

Abdul has been recognised for his commitment to the industry, including features in Money Marketing (an industry publication), and is known for his dedication, attention to detail, and drive to continually expand his expertise. At Root Paraplanning, he provides dedicated support through research, analysis, and report preparation, helping the team to deliver clear, compliant, and client-focused financial planning solutions.