We have questions needing answers, so we headed with notepad and pen to quiz David in our Exeter office. A key part of our financial planning team since 2019, David brings not only industry experience and expertise, but a bit of continental flair following a five-year stint teaching in Switzerland and Italy. Intriguing stuff, so let’s find out more about him.
Buongiorno David! Umm… think we’d better do this in English – how would you describe your work in three words?
Buongiorno. Three words… I’d have to fall back on what we’re all about: ‘lifestyle financial planning’ – lifestyle being the key word. Money is a means to live the lifestyle that we want, and I help my clients to achieve theirs.
That certainly meets the brief, well played. How about your proudest moment at Goodmans to date?
I honestly couldn’t pick just one moment… I’m proud to be a part of my clients’ lives and to be able to make a difference to them. And I'm proud to be a part of Goodmans and the amazing team of people we have.
We’ll let you off that non-specific answer there because we completely agree with you. Can you narrow this one down – what keeps you smiling at work every day?
It’s my clients again. I’ve been told by parents (including my own) that you can experience life through the eyes of your children. Well, I find it also applies to my clients – their achievements, their tales, their happiness. That makes me smile.
Care to share what's on your reading or listening list at the moment?
I like audiobooks and podcasts. The audiobook I’ve currently got on the go is The 3-Day Effect, which looks into why nature makes us happier, healthier and more creative. And I keep up with Podcast Italiano – Italian conversations about Italy, its people and its language at a pace that I can follow. I fell in love with Italy during my time there, and it’s a great way of keeping up with my Italian.
Che bello! Or something like that. Quickly moving on, what keeps you busy when you’re not working?
Perfetto! A variety of things really. I spend a lot of time with family. I share a passion for music with my brother. This time of year, my wife and I love the outdoors – we’ve just got paddleboards, so we’ll be taking them out very soon! But come rain or shine, you’ll find me at Home Park every other Saturday with my dad watching our beloved Plymouth Argyle.
That’s dedication right there! Other than your treasured team, what do you think is the best thing about the South West?
I loved Italy for its food, sea and its people. And Switzerland – its mountains and lakes. But the lush green countryside that we have here is unrivalled. It’s spectacular, so I think that’s the best thing about the South West!
It’s really something, isn’t it? Although we’ll admit that Italy does have its own charm in places… Can you tell us a quote or phrase that goes through life with you?
A quote that has stuck with me is: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now”, which is a Chinese proverb. It’s served as a reminder to not regret what I haven’t done, but to do it now. I think it’s true for those who are thinking about what to do in their ‘life after work’!
Sage advice that we stand by at Goodmans – it’s never too early to plan for an amazing retirement. Next up: who is your hero and why?
Perhaps 'hero' is too strong a word. I have crossed paths with some great people from all walks of life, but I couldn’t pick one of them out.
What about if we wear a cape? No? Oh well, we tried. Time for the big finale: if you could give your younger self one piece of advice what would it be?
Life is a game – relax, go out and have fun with it.
Great way to sum up, let’s get on with enjoying life as we should. Thanks, David, ciao until next time!