about us
Meet the team
Watson French rely on a young, capable team to act as first point of contact for clients.
The goal in 2011 was to recruit five trainees over a period of seven years and mentor each of them to Chartered Financial Adviser qualification. This has reduced the average age of our advisers and enabled us to achieve a strong succession for the continued success of the business.
Robert Dougherty Independent Financial Adviser
Robert joined the Watson French team in 2021 as a Graduate Trainee IFA, completing his CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning in August 2022. He is now working towards achieving Chartered status.
Robert advises both private individuals and businesses on all aspects of financial planning, including investment planning, retirement planning and protection.
Having previously completed a degree in Finance and Investment Banking, Robert uses his knowledge and passion for investments in assisting with the development of the firm’s investment strategy.
Ryan Carmedy Associate IFA
Ryan joined Watson French in January 2023 as a Graduate Trainee IFA. He graduated with a degree in Economics from Durham University and has previously interned at a large investment management company.
Ryan holds the CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning and is working towards achieving Chartered status. Ryan supports the advice process by conducting investment research and financial forecasts.
Ryan enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and sea swimming and hopes to preserve the environment though sustainable investments.
Harry Downing Associate IFA
Harry joined Watson French in April 2023 as a Graduate Trainee IFA.
Having completed the CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, he will now be working towards achieving chartered status alongside his day-to-day tasks, such as conducting investment research and supporting in the advice process.
Harry graduated with a degree in Business and Economics in May 2023 from California State University, Bakersfield. He enjoys sports such as football and is passionate about how technology can be utilised to improve society.
Charlotte Pearson Office Manager
Charlotte joined Watson French in 2018 as an administrator, working alongside Anna to provide a professional and friendly service to clients. Charlotte’s working background is diverse and brings a variety of experience to the team.
As Office Manager, she ensures the smooth running of the office on a day-to-day basis, providing administrative support and guidance to our advice team as well as managing company policies and procedures.
Anna Roberts Executive Assistant
Anna joined the Watson French team in 2021. As an Executive Assistant, her day-to-day duties include organising the business calendar and providing administrative support to new and existing clients. She is often a first point of contact for clients and is able to assist with any enquiries.
Anna holds a BA (Hons) degree in English from Royal Holloway, University of London.
Lucy Maloney Administrator
Lucy joined Watson French in May 2023 as an administrator to support both Charlotte and Anna in day to day duties, servicing new and existing clients and to be the first point of contact for client enquiries.
In her spare time Lucy enjoys walking her two spaniel’s and gardening.
Fiona Chegwidden Graduate Trainee IFA
Fiona joined Watson French in November 2024 as a Graduate Trainee IFA.
She is currently working towards achieving the CII Level 4 Diploma, alongside her daily activities which include producing client valuations and supporting the investment research process at Watson French.
Fiona graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), as well as an intercalated BSc in Oncology from University College London in 2023. She spent a year working as a doctor in the NHS, before pursuing an alternative career in financial services.
Fiona enjoys gardening and also has a keen interest in Cornish culture, music and dance.