Get to know Richard Vaughan.
Our Superannuation, Retirement & Investment Specialist.
Our team are thrilled to have Richard as a part of our Highview Crew. He’s not a new face to all – would you believe that he’s been with us for almost a year… time flies by when you’re having fun! We’re feeling pretty lucky to have his expertise and professionalism leading our Financial Planning team!
With over 20 years’ experience in Financial Advisory services, Accounting and Senior Management, Richard’s number one passion – driven by his experience, expertise and eagerness to keep well-informed and proactive, is rather simple – to add value to his clients’ lives. In close second, his other passion lies in supporting AFL team ‘the mighty Tigers!’
Since finishing high school, Richard has had a career in Banking. His last role saw him working out of an Accountant’s office, specialising in small and medium businesses. Richard has always had a passion for helping people achieve their dreams, and this is why he has strived to develop his career to where it is today. He says, “I am fortunate enough to be able to help people improve their lives, achieve their dreams, and provide them with peace of mind. It makes me happy that I get to do that every day through the work that my team and I do.”
Richard has extensive experience working with a variety of clients, including those with Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF) and complex financial structures. Richard specialises in retiree and pre-retiree planning. Fully qualified, he is additionally accredited as an SMSF Specialist with the SMSF Association of Australia and is a member of the Financial Advisers Association of Australia.
Richard’s years of experience in the industry solidifies a strong track record delivering great results to clients. He is a professional at collaborating and communicating clearly with his clients to gain insight into their priorities and financial considerations. Alleviating a client’s financial concerns and reducing anxiety surrounding money is Richard’s primary focus. He achieves this by streamlining and organising their financial situation, while closely partnering with them to assist in reaching their objectives. Richard says, “My greatest reward is when a client leaves our meetings with a sense of relief, which can be seen on their faces. I have had many occasions where happy tears are shed in meetings with clients, as burden and stress are lifted off their shoulders.”
Although Richard works with clients on many paths and differing goals, he has a passion for working alongside and assisting those who are looking at getting a retirement plan in place. He acknowledges that retirement can be overwhelming and uncertain. Richard says that “We find many clients lack the confidence to ‘pull the trigger’ on their retirement, or worse still – they retire and don’t enjoy it, fearing they will run out of money. We can ensure that clients gain an understanding of where they are at and what steps can be taken to enhance their position ahead of retirement. We then assist in ensuring those steps eventuate, and provide them clarity on a retirement plan, so they feel at ease living their best life.”
Finance is not the only thing that fuels Richard’s fire. Richard loves nothing more than spending time with his beautiful family. He lives in Lysterfield with his wife of 20 years, Rachel, and their children. He loves being an active participant in his children’s basketball and football pursuits – whether he is cheering from the sidelines or imparting his wisdom as a coach for their teams. Although he used to play sports himself, Richard claims he now prefers to be involved in his kids sports instead, or watching the mighty Tigers live at the MCG or on the TV.
Richard’s dedication to his clients is exemplified through heartfelt testimonials that highlight his unwavering support and guidance during pivotal life transitions. Here’s one we received recently that we think would resonate with many…
“My late husband, Ian and I started seeing Richard to get advice about our joint superannuation, as we were looking at retirement. Ian had recently sold his business. We were self-funded retirees… and we had no idea where to begin! He became our Financial Adviser – keeping our money as safe as possible and for me to live comfortably without the stress of worrying about losing money; to make my life as financially comfortable as my savings allow.
Martha, Financial Planning Client
I realise my Superannuation is a small dip in the ocean compared to some, but Richard does everything to assure me I’m in a good position, financially. I feel safe under his watchful eye, and I know he is acting on my behalf, no matter how big or small my savings are. Richard has given me peace of mind. No question is silly. He replies to all emails, texts, phone-calls efficiently and promptly and even has travelled from Melbourne to Bendigo for appointments face-to-face.
I would recommend Richard because of his sincerity, work ethic, kindness, and honesty. His compassion and empathy with the passing of Ian has been wonderful. He has become a friend through all our dealings and his financial assistance and knowledge to me, is invaluable.”
Richard not only engages in individual client consultations, but also demonstrates a passion for educating in larger group forums. As a leading specialist in superannuation, retirement, and investment strategies, he frequently hosts educational seminars to empower his clients with valuable knowledge. Recent seminars, such as the insightful session on ‘Investing in NDIS Property’, demonstrate Richard’s commitment to delivering impactful and relevant information to further enhance his clients’ financial knowledge.
We look forward to our wonderful Highview clients and community gaining great value from Richard!
Scan the QR Code below to reach out to Richard…
UPCOMING SEMINAR 30th MAY – HOSTED BY RICHARD – Check out the details here.