Wes Wilkes, founder of IronMarket, has been selected as a finalist for the Entrepreneur of the Year category at the Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards. This category is proudly sponsored by Staffordshire University.
Wes Wilkes career in finance began when he joined the graduate scheme at The Royal Bank of Scotland. His passion for financial advice and investing grew as he worked within major institutions and a mortgage brokerage.
In 2012, the Retail Distribution Review (RDR) prompted significant changes within the banking sector, leading Wes to contemplate his future. Encouraged by his father, a successful entrepreneur, Wes decided to take the leap and establish his own business. In 2013, he left the bank and, with meticulous planning, founded IronMarket. His goal was to deliver financial and investment advice in a manner aligned with his vision.
Through local networking, support from friends and family, and strategic advertising, he managed to replace his bank salary within six weeks. A year later, IronMarket became directly authorized by the FCA, allowing Wes to expand the business’s offerings to include discretionary management alongside financial planning.
This dual capability, rare among wealth management firms, set IronMarket apart and accelerated its growth. Wes’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of IronMarket Risk and IronMarket Talent, even amid the challenges of the pandemic. His strategic vision and ability to adapt ensured these ventures not only survived but thrived, providing valuable services to clients and further solidifying IronMarket’s reputation
Central to Wes’s success is the strong community and trust he has built at IronMarket. He fosters deep relationships with clients, often forming friendships and connecting clients with one another.
The winner of the award will be announced at the highly-anticipated Gala Awards evening, taking place on Thursday, 4 July at the Doubletree by Hilton, Festival Park.
