At Telford Mann Elite Sports Division, we understand what you need because we have been there.
Our advisers are former and current sports professionals who have been on the same journey as you, they speak your language, understand the highs and the lows and most importantly of all, they know how to help you achieve the financial security you are looking for.
Utilise the skills you already have.
The nature of becoming an elite professional athlete means you naturally have determination, resilience and many of the core skills it takes to become a successful financial planner. We can assist you with the technical knowledge, but your life experience puts you on a potential fast-track to success. Our current Elite Sports advisers are all on different stages of their journeys, meaning we can provide you with the guidance at every turn, to have a career ready and waiting for when you choose to enter the next chapter of your life.
Ethan Waller
Financial Planner
Ethan gained his Diploma in Financial Planning during his 14 years of professional rugby and began working full time with Telford Mann in 2024. As chair of the Rugby Players Association for a significant portion of his career, he has always been passionate about helping others and this was one of the main reasons he chose to become a Financial Planner. Ethan was one of the original members of the Elite Sports Division and now helps other players follow a similar path or take control of their own finances to give them stability after their playing days come to an end.
Tel: 01536 462700
Email: ethan.waller@telfordmann.co.uk
Matt Johnson
Trainee Financial Planner
Matt joined Telford Mann as a trainee in February 2025 alongside his professional rugby career with Coventry Rugby. Prior to this he achieved a degree in Economics and Finance, as well as an MSc in Financial Analysis & Fund Management.
Tel: 01536 462700
Email: matthew.johnson@telfordmann.co.uk
Shay Kerry
Trainee Financial Planner
After 11 years of full time Professional rugby, Shay knew it was time to start looking at life past professional sport. A unique opportunity then presented itself, a contract with Bedford Blues, currently playing in the championship and involved in the Premiership Cup. Although still classed as a professional team the hours of commitment are part time. This allowed Shay to take full advantage of the Telford Mann Sports Academy Pathway which is giving him all the tools, training, and opportunities to be a Financial Planner.
Tel: 01536 462700
Email: shay.kerry@telfordmann.co.uk
Steve Cummins
Trainee Financial Planner
Steve was born in Sydney, Australia and has been playing professional Rugby Union for the past 15 years. During this time, he has completed a Bachelor of Business majoring in Finance.
Tel: 01536 462700
Email: steven.cummins@telfordmann.co.uk
We know that the future can look worrying when you look at the stats*
52% of players do not feel in control of their lives two years after they retire
32% of respondents cited that financial worries had the most significant negative impact on their mental well-being
Almost 50% had financial difficulties in the first five years
46% were unhappy with their preparation for life after sport
However, by making sure you get the right advice, you can make sure that you and your family are not only protected, but can look forward to a bright future.
Financial planning can make a huge difference to your future.
Careers:
- There are 30,000 financial advisers in the UK – half are aged over 50 and 20% are over 60.
- This means that in the future there will be more people seeking advice and fewer financial advisers available to provide it.
- We are looking for: ambition, robustness, commitment, a strong work ethic and team players.
- In essence, the attributes of a successful elite athlete.
Planning:
- Financial advice can make people, on average, nearly £48,000 better off in pensions and financial assets compared to those who don’t take advice, according to the International Longevity Centre (ILC).
- 90% of people who see a financial adviser regularly feel the advice has benefited them according to research conducted by Old Mutual Wealth and YouGov and Aegon.
- Insuring yourself against the worst that can happen will protect you and your family.
* According to research conducted in 2018 by the PPF in partnership with the Rugby Players Association, the Professional Cricketers Association and the Professional Footballers Association.