Rowan Dartington

In 1990, Rowan Dartington was established in Bristol with a straightforward mission: to manage and grow wealth by understanding the personal goals of its clients. The firm operated as an independent wealth manager and stockbroker, building a reputation for its advisory and discretionary investment management services. For years, the business grew steadily, focusing on providing a personalized service to its clients across the UK from its regional offices. The significant event in Rowan Dartington's journey occurred in 2015. The firm was acquired by St. James's Place, a major wealth management group, in a deal valued at up to £34 million. At the time of the acquisition, Rowan Dartington had over £1.1 billion in funds under management and about 100 employees. For St. James's Place, the acquisition provided an entry into the discretionary fund management market, a service it had been looking to add. For Rowan Dartington, it represented the "best possible 'next chapter' in [its] growth and development." Following the acquisition, the firm continued to operate as a distinct business within the larger group, maintaining its own investment committee. This new chapter fueled significant growth, with assets under management and employee numbers increasing substantially in the years that followed.