What 35+ Years in Private Client Advisory Has Taught Me
Mark Dawes, Citywealth Magic Circle Career Achievement Award Winner
For over 35 years, Mark has acted for high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, internationally mobile clients and those in the sports, media and entertainment sectors, and is known for delivering technically robust and commercially practical solutions where cross-border issues arise.
Following his recent award, we asked Mark to reflect on the lessons he has learned throughout his career, the mistakes he still sees clients making, and the ways in which tax advisory and planning continues to evolve.
“Technical expertise is only part of the equation…”
Technical knowledge is only part of the job. The real value comes from understanding what clients are trying to achieve and helping them make well-informed decisions. Legislation changes constantly; good judgement never goes out of date.
“Enduring advice depends on understanding your client…”
Good advice isn’t about chasing every new tax rule. It’s about understanding a client’s objectives, keeping plans under review and making decisions that still make sense years later.
“The biggest mistakes I still see…”
Putting off important decisions or making decisions without seeking advice beforehand. Whether it’s succession, selling a business, moving overseas or structuring investments, delaying rarely creates more options and doing any of these before taking advice could prove a very expensive mistake. The best outcomes, more often than not, come from planning ahead.
“Wealth planning has become increasingly complex…”
The world has become far more complex. Clients are increasingly international; tax rules change more frequently and decisions in one area often have consequences in another. Joined-up advice has never been more important.
“The questions clients are asking in 2026…”
Clients are looking beyond immediate tax savings. They’re asking how today’s decisions affect their business, their investments, their family and their future They want advice that takes all of those factors into account, rather than considering each issue in isolation.
Reflecting on more than 35 years in private client advisory, one theme remains consistent: legislations will continue to evolve, markets will continue to change, governments will introduce new rules – but the foundations of good advice remain the same. Understanding clients, thinking for the long term and helping people make decisions with confidence are the principles which have shaped my career and continue to guide the advice I provide today.
As Mark explains, the best outcomes rarely come from last-minute decisions. Whether you’re planning a business exit, thinking about succession or reviewing your wealth strategy, early advice creates greater flexibility and stronger long-term outcomes.
Get in touch with our team today to plan your next step with confidence.
