About us

Sound, honest and transparent financial advice. Generation after generation.

Our mission is to provide our loyal customers with sound, honest and transparent financial advice, using the latest technology, empowering them to make better financial decisions.

What we do

We are the Financial Planners who care about your financial health, so we’ll take the time to find out what your goals and objectives are for the future: what matters to you?

Through regular communication, we’ll put together bespoke financial solutions that will help you to reach your financial goals.

We know circumstances change, so we’ll meet with you regularly to review your plan and ensure we’re always making your money work for you.

A rider on the lane beside a drystone wall below the Pentland Hills, near the Swanston Road office

Who we help

We provide individuals and companies in Central Scotland, and beyond, with a straightforward, transparent service that always has the client’s goals and best interests at heart.

With over 60 years of industry experience, we specialise in Retirement Planning, Investment Planning and Corporate Services.

Who we are

The team at Strategic Wealth Solutions are loyal, caring and committed to being the best: for ourselves, for the team and most importantly, for you.

Keith Barr established SWS with a vision to enrich and inform lives through dynamic financial solutions in an ever changing world. Together, we have helped to improve over 500 people’s finances and have advised over 300 people who are now enjoying a financially secure retirement.

We’re proud to be part of St. James’s Place, one of the UK’s leading wealth management organisations. So whilst you’ll receive the benefits of our personalised approach, you can feel reassured that we’re backed by a FTSE listed company.

Improve your financial health in the short and long-term.
Achieve financial security for your family.
Financial goals defined in an honest environment.
Feel empowered to make better financial decisions.

Advice Guarantee

As a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place, SWS receive thorough support and undertake extensive ongoing professional development to ensure we remain as well qualified and technically able as possible.

As a result, St. James’s Place guarantees the suitability of the advice given by our team when recommending any of St. James’s Place wealth management products and services available from companies in the group, giving you complete peace of mind. More details are set out on the Group’s website at www.sjp.co.uk/products.

Our Approach

As a family-owned business, we’re built on trust and loyalty.

Planning your finances to keep your loved ones safe and secure is the most important thing. We get it, and we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible solutions at all times. We have the know-how to help protect your family’s financial future, and to help you to live the life that you want.

When you choose SWS as your Financial Planner, you’ll receive a completely bespoke service, and transparent, tailored financial solutions that will make your money work for you.

Meet the team

The nine people behind Strategic Wealth Solutions.

Keith Barr
Director
With 20 years’ experience in Financial Services, Keith is a Chartered Fellow of the LIBF. He founded Strategic Wealth Solutions to take the good practices gained in his previous roles and create a unique service for his clients. He provides specialist advice across retirement and investment planning as well as corporate business planning, with a particular passion for small to medium businesses. Outside of work he enjoys family, travel, golf and football.
Ryan McCallum
Financial Adviser
Ryan was a business owner for 15 years, building long lasting relationships with his clients. He entered the financial services industry in 2019, focuses on Investment and Retirement Planning, and is studying towards his chartered status. Away from work Ryan enjoys time with his wife and children, golf on Scotland’s east coast and the occasional game of football.
James McDermid
Financial Adviser
James joined us in 2024, having worked in financial services for over 35 years. Many of his clients have been with him for over 20 years. He works closely with local schools, businesses, football clubs, family trusts and retirees from the financial sector. Away from the office it’s all about family time, football and golf.
Ross Thomson
Coming soon
Ross joined us in Summer 2026 and is currently undergoing an intensive training programme. We’re looking forward to sharing more about his role with you soon.
Samantha Kiteley
Office Manager
Samantha joined us in March 2023 and is responsible for the day to day running of the practice, client servicing and supporting Keith in the ongoing development of the Practice. She brings 10 years of experience in accountancy, investment management and fintech (non-advisory roles) and is studying towards her Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning.
Phil Clements
Client Servicing Administrator
Phil joined us in November 2023 and provides administrative support to clients and colleagues. He joined Scottish Widows in 2017 within their workplace pensions teams, then moved to Standard Life. Outside of work he plays rugby and hockey.
Katie Hall
Client Servicing Administrator
Katie joined us in 2026 from Aegon, where she developed broad knowledge of retirement and investment products. She graduated in 2024 with a 2:1 BA (Hons) in Events and Festival Management. Outside of work she enjoys yoga, Pilates and Saturday morning parkruns.
Ann Matthew
Business Administrator
Ann joined us in March 2021 and provides administration support to all aspects of the business. She worked within Bank of Scotland branches for many years, joined the Scottish Widows Mortgage Department in 2016 and moved to Bank of Scotland Private Banking in 2018.
Andrei Mardari
Business Administrator
Andrei joined us in September 2026, supporting the team and clients with day to day administration. He holds the CISI Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma and an MSc in Business Analysis and Strategic Management, and will work towards a chartered qualification. He is fluent in English, Italian and Moldovan.