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Each member of the IPS Capital team is integral to the success of our firm and, in turn, the financial wellbeing of our clients.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Senior Wealth Planner, Lucy Chahil.
Having joined us in June 2024 after a lengthy career at top firms, Lucy works with individuals and couples pre- and post-retirement, ensuring they leave no stone unturned when managing their wealth for themselves and the next generation.
Notably, Lucy has been shortlisted for this year’s Professional Adviser Women in Finance Awards in the following categories:
- Woman of the Year – Vulnerable Client Care
- Financial Adviser of the Year – London
Continue reading to learn more about Lucy’s role and expertise.
1. What is your role at IPS?
As a Senior Wealth Planner, my work covers the full spectrum of financial planning – from retirement planning to tax efficiency and estate strategy. My core focus is lifestyle financial planning, which means helping clients shape and sustain the life they want over the long term, rather than simply responding to short-term needs or transactional goals.
I also specialise in financial planning during divorce, supporting clients through one of life’s most challenging transitions with professionalism, empathy, and a forward-looking strategy.
2. What are the main wealth planning challenges facing clients today?
One of the key areas is helping clients navigate the upcoming change to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and pension rules, due to take effect in April 2027. Under the new legislation, pensions will be included in a person’s taxable estate for IHT purposes, regardless of age at death. This marks a significant shift from the current framework.
For many of our clients, this change could result in substantial tax exposure, particularly when their unused pension benefits are combined with property wealth. We’re proactively reviewing estate plans, drawdown strategies, and beneficiary arrangements to ensure clients are well-positioned ahead of the transition.
From a divorce planning perspective, the challenge continues to be splitting a couple’s two largest assets: property and pensions. These are often emotionally and financially charged decisions, and we work closely with clients to help obtain settlements that are not only fair but also financially sustainable over the long term.
3. How do you go about designing solutions for clients going through life transitions such as retirement or divorce?
Every client’s situation is unique, so I begin by understanding their priorities, values, and what they want to achieve – whether they’re facing retirement, facilitating a business sale, planning a generational wealth transfer, or going through divorce.
We use detailed cashflow forecasting to model different scenarios and help clients visualise the long-term impact of their decisions. This enables them to consider their options and take control, especially when the future feels uncertain. From there, we build a tailored financial plan that’s not just technically sound but aligned with their specific circumstances.
Personally, I find this part of the process incredibly rewarding: learning about a complex situation, crafting a solution, and then delivering it in a way that brings them peace of mind.
4. What are some aspects of wealth planning that most people overlook?
Many clients assume that because they’re financially comfortable day-to-day, they don’t need detailed cashflow analysis. But in reality, cashflow modelling often reveals opportunities (and risks) that aren’t immediately obvious. It helps us test different scenarios, keep track of clients’ liabilities, and ensure long-term sustainability, especially when wealth is tied up in illiquid assets or complex structures.
Another area that’s frequently underestimated is tax efficiency. Small adjustments can make a significant difference over time. And of course, compounding is a quiet powerhouse. When clients take a long-term view and allow investments to grow tax-efficiently, the results can be transformative.
Wealth planning isn’t just about having “enough”. It’s about making sure your money works as hard and as smart as possible so clients can spend more time on the things they care about.
5. What is your favourite thing about your role?
For me, it’s the variety. No two clients are the same; each brings a unique set of priorities, perspectives, and ambitions. That means every solution we design is bespoke, tailored not just to their financial position but to their values and vision for the future.
I also love the balance my role offers. On one hand, I get to engage with clients, building relationships and helping them navigate life’s transitions with confidence. On the other, I get to dive into the technical side – analysing data, modelling scenarios, and crafting strategies that stand up to scrutiny.
6. What is your favourite place in London for a family day out?
We love a good challenge, so our favourite family day out has to be clueQuest near King’s Cross. It’s an escape room experience with cleverly designed missions that get everyone thinking (and brings out my family’s competitive spirit!). We’ve done quite a few escape rooms over the years and this is one of the best.
Get in touch
Our wealth planners, investment managers, and consultancy experts can help you manage your wealth and achieve your long-term goals.
Please contact your relationship manager or email info@ipscap.com for more information.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Investments should be considered over the longer term and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning, cashflow planning, or tax planning. IPS Capital does not provide tax advice.
