As we approach 2025, the financial advice sector faces both exciting opportunities and renewed challenges. Asset managers and VC firms are adjusting to a fast-moving world, where the ability to pivot, innovate, and stay close to clients will define success. For sales professionals in the IFA channel, the next year promises to be a defining period, separating those who excel from those who struggle to adapt.

At Fram Search, we are trusted IFA sales recruitment specialists, helping firms across the UK build exceptional sales teams. With years of experience in both asset management and wealth management recruitment, we understand what it takes to succeed in a competitive and evolving environment. What does 2025 have in store and how should sales professionals in the IFA sales channel have in mind?

Top-performing salespeople in the IFA sales channel do more than sell—they educate. Clients increasingly expect sales partners to bring technical value and insight that goes beyond products. Whether it’s explaining complex investment strategies, demystifying regulation, or addressing specific financial challenges, the ability to provide clear, value-driven education will define the best in the field.

Sales professionals who are able to support continuous learning and build strong relationships through their expertise will have a distinct advantage. For firms, this means prioritising candidates who not only have a track record of hitting targets but also possess the technical knowledge and communication skills to add value at every stage of the client journey.

While digital tools remain an integral part of the sales process, 2025 will continue to reaffirm the importance of meeting in person. We’ve already seen a boom of client events in 2024! In a sector built on trust and personal connection, face-to-face interaction remains the gold standard for building relationships and raising capital. It’s worth making the journey, especially in an industry where the strength of relationships often determines success.

At Fram, we’ve seen how the best salespeople balance digital efficiency with in-person connection. Firms hiring for IFA sales roles must look for candidates who understand the value of both and know when to prioritise that all-important personal meeting.

Client retention has never been more critical for asset managers and VCs, and customer service is at the heart of it. Clients are quick to notice when infrastructure is lacking, whether it’s slow response times, clunky onboarding processes, or insufficient support. For sales professionals, this presents an opportunity to differentiate their firm by highlighting first-class service as a core part of the proposition.

Firms must ensure that their customer service and operational infrastructure are seamless. This not only prevents client attrition but also becomes a powerful selling point for sales teams. The best salespeople will always be backed by the best systems and operations teams.

In 2025, the relationship between sales and marketing will be more important than ever. Firms that thrive will be those where these functions work hand in hand, with clear communication and shared priorities. Regular meetings to ensure marketing efforts align with sales goals will amplify results and make sales teams more effective.

Sales professionals who understand the importance of marketing and know how to collaborate will be invaluable. For firms hiring in this space, looking for candidates who can articulate how they’ve partnered with marketing teams to drive success is a must.

Salespeople are the bridge between clients and the firm, and in 2025 their role in product development will be crucial. Firms that can pivot quickly to meet client needs and provide relevant solutions will stand out, and the feedback sales teams provide will play a central role in this process. Sales professionals need to stay close to clients, listening to their challenges and feeding this insight back to support innovation.

This dynamic requires salespeople who are systematic, proactive, and excellent communicators. For firms, hiring talent who understand this process will be critical to staying ahead of the competition.

As the market improves, competition will inevitably intensify. Asset Managers will strengthen their sales teams, and the fight for client attention will grow fiercer. For sales professionals, staying close to clients and maintaining regular, meaningful contact will be essential. The best salespeople will anticipate client needs, provide timely solutions, and build loyalty that withstands the pressures of a competitive market.

At Fram Search, we specialise in helping firms hire the sales talent they need to succeed in a rapidly changing market. As IFA sales recruitment specialists, we understand the unique demands of the sector and what it takes to thrive. Our experienced consultants, extensive networks, and tailored approach ensure that we connect firms with candidates who align with their goals, culture, and vision for the future.

Whether you’re looking to build a team that can tackle 2025 head-on or you’re a sales professional ready to take the next step in your career, we’re here to help. Contact Fram Search today to learn how we can support your recruitment needs in the IFA sales market.

2025 is set to be a pivotal year for IFA sales. By focusing on client education, building strong relationships, aligning sales and marketing, and staying agile in product development, firms can position themselves for success.