Originally published at: https://bcorporation.com.au/blog/ethical-finance-new-b-corp-planning-partners/
Established in 1999, Planning Partners is a privately owned and operated financial planning business. With a focus on doing the little things right, the company has made a significant impact on its clients, their families, employees, and the wider community. From encouraging philanthropy and increasing community involvement to reducing their carbon footprint and maintaining a high standard of service, Planning Partners focuses on making a positive impact.
Planning Partners recently achieved B Corp Certification. To celebrate, we took a closer look at what sets Planning Partners apart as a B Corp and how they are equipping their clients with clarity and confidence to reach their financial goals.
Image: Planning Partners
Tell us a bit about what Planning Partners does.
We are a financial planning and superannuation advisory firm, which means we offer trusted and ethical financial advice to individuals and families, businesses, and philanthropic organisations.
We do it in a way that supports our core values and provides understanding and guidance.
Initially, we’ll have a chat with our clients to see where we can add value to help them reach their financial goals. Then, we’ll give them comprehensive advice and put the necessary measures in place. Lastly, we’ll provide ongoing support to make sure they stay on track to reach their desired outcome.
Why did you want to certify as a B Corp?
The B Corp Certification aligns with our values and goal of making a positive impact for a better world in our own, small way. We are a progressive and community-focused practice that employs personable and astute people.
Like B Lab, we want to build partnerships through understanding and guidance.
Becoming a Certified B Corporation will add a layer of accountability and oversight to our practices.
Image: Planning Partners
What makes Planning Partners unique as a business? Tell us some of the areas where you have the biggest impact, or some of the little changes you’ve made to make a difference.
In 1999, Planning Partners made the decision to operate under our own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) rather than under the umbrella of a large corporation (bank or superfund).
We believe that by doing the little things well, we can have a significant impact on our clients, their families, our employees, and the wider community.
Over the years, we’ve increased our involvement in the community, reduced our carbon footprint, and maintained our high standard of service.
One of the biggest impacts we’ve made is encouraging our team and clients to engage in philanthropic activities. For example, each year, we allocate funds to every team member to donate to a charity of their choice, and our annual financial commitment to local sports clubs has steadily increased.
On the environmental front, our heightened awareness over the years has led us to improve or implement policies and processes that significantly reduce our environmental impact.
Image: Planning Partners
B Corps want to help transform our economy into one that is inclusive, sustainable, and regenerative. What business practice do you want to see become the norm?
It’s quite straightforward for us – starting with the basics: fair and rewarding employment practices, practical and enduring client advice, and community involvement and sponsorship. If everyone does this, the whole of society will benefit.
Do you have any tips for aspiring B Corps about the certification process?
Our most important tip is: be accurate with your initial responses as this saves time later on.
A big thank you to Planning Partners for sharing their story with us. To find out more, visit: planningpartners.com.au