About flux-battery

Dedicated to making financial management accessible, understandable, and effective for everyone in Manchester.

Our Story

flux-battery was founded in 2014 by a group of financial professionals who saw too many people struggling with money management despite having access to countless resources. The problem wasn't lack of information—it was the overwhelming complexity and conflicting advice that made financial planning feel impossible.

We started with a simple mission: provide clear, honest financial guidance that people can actually understand and implement. Our first office was a small space in Manchester's Northern Quarter, where we worked with local freelancers and small business owners who needed practical support without the intimidation factor of traditional financial services.

Over the past twelve years, we've grown from that three-person team to a diverse group of specialists. What hasn't changed is our commitment to making financial management less daunting and more accessible. We still believe the best financial advice is the kind you can understand, trust, and put into action.

What Drives Us

Absolute Transparency

We explain our fees upfront, never earn hidden commissions, and ensure you understand exactly what you're paying for. Our recommendations are based solely on what serves your interests, not ours.

Client Education

We don't want you dependent on us forever. Part of our role is teaching you financial concepts so you can make informed decisions independently. Knowledge is empowerment.

Financial Inclusion

Quality financial advice shouldn't only be available to the wealthy. We offer services at various price points and work with clients across all income levels.

Practical Solutions

Theoretical advice that doesn't fit real life is useless. We focus on strategies you can actually implement given your circumstances, constraints, and daily realities.

Long-Term Relationships

Financial planning isn't transactional. We build lasting relationships with clients, supporting them through different life stages and changing circumstances.

Community Commitment

As a Manchester-based business, we're invested in the local community. We support financial literacy initiatives and provide pro bono advice to local charities.

Meet Our Team

Our advisors bring diverse backgrounds and specialisations, united by a commitment to client-focused service.

Eleanor Hartley

Founding Director & Senior Financial Planner

With over 18 years in financial services, Eleanor specialises in comprehensive financial planning and retirement strategy. She holds advanced certifications in pension planning and investment management.

David Chen

Business Finance Specialist

David focuses on helping small and medium businesses manage finances effectively. His background in accounting and business development gives him unique insight into entrepreneurial financial challenges.

Priya Sharma

Investment Advisor

Priya guides clients through investment decisions with a focus on sustainable, diversified portfolios. She's particularly skilled at explaining complex investment products in accessible language.

Marcus Thompson

Debt Management Consultant

Marcus helps clients navigate debt challenges with compassion and practical strategies. His previous work in credit counselling informs his empathetic, solution-focused approach.

Sophie Anderson

Tax & Estate Planning Advisor

Sophie specialises in tax-efficient planning and estate management. She helps clients minimise tax liabilities while ensuring their assets are structured according to their wishes.

James O'Brien

Property Investment Advisor

James supports clients interested in property investment, from first-time landlords to experienced portfolio builders. His knowledge of the Manchester property market is invaluable.

Our Journey

2014

Founded in Manchester

Opened our first office in the Northern Quarter with a team of three advisors and a commitment to accessible financial services.

2016

Expanded Service Offering

Added business financial planning and investment advisory services in response to client demand.

2018

Community Partnership Programme

Launched free financial literacy workshops for Manchester residents and began pro bono work with local charities.

2020

COVID-19 Support Initiative

Provided emergency financial guidance to businesses and individuals affected by the pandemic, offering reduced fees and flexible payment options.

2022

New Office Opening

Moved to larger premises on Deansgate to accommodate our growing team and provide better facilities for client meetings.

2024

Sustainability Focus

Introduced ethical investment options and sustainable financial planning services aligned with environmental and social responsibility.

Recognition & Achievements

Financial Planning Awards 2023

Shortlisted for Best Regional Financial Planning Firm in the North West England category.

Client Satisfaction Excellence

Maintained a 96% client satisfaction rating across independent surveys conducted over the past three years.

Manchester Business Awards 2022

Recognised for Outstanding Professional Services and contribution to the local business community.

Community Impact Recognition

Acknowledged by Manchester City Council for financial literacy initiatives supporting vulnerable residents.

Professional Accreditations

All senior advisors hold advanced certifications from recognised financial planning and investment management bodies.

Ethical Business Certification

Certified by the Financial Conduct Authority with zero complaints upheld in our operating history.

How We're Different

Fee Transparency

Many financial advisors earn commissions from products they recommend, creating potential conflicts of interest. We charge clear, upfront fees for our time and expertise. You pay us directly, not through hidden product commissions, ensuring our advice is genuinely independent.

No Pressure Sales

We never pressure clients into decisions. Financial planning requires careful thought. We give you time to consider recommendations, answer questions, and only proceed when you're completely comfortable with the proposed approach.

Continuous Professional Development

Financial regulations, tax laws, and investment products constantly evolve. Our team commits to ongoing education, attending regular training and staying current with industry changes to provide accurate, up-to-date advice.

Holistic Perspective

We don't just focus on investments or pensions in isolation. Financial decisions affect multiple areas of your life, so we consider the complete picture: income, expenses, debts, savings, investments, tax, insurance, and estate planning.

Realistic Expectations

We won't promise unrealistic returns or overnight transformations. Good financial planning is about consistent, sustainable progress. We set achievable goals and build strategies based on evidence, not speculation.

Adaptable Support

Your needs change over time. We structure our services flexibly, allowing you to increase or decrease support levels as circumstances shift. There's no obligation for ongoing engagement if you don't need it.

Regulation & Protection

Your security and trust are paramount. We operate under strict regulatory standards designed to protect clients.

FCA Authorisation

We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, ensuring we meet stringent professional and ethical standards.

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Comprehensive insurance coverage protects clients in the unlikely event of professional errors or omissions.

Client Money Protection

We never handle client money directly. All investments and transactions go through regulated custodians and platforms.

Data Security

Your personal and financial information is protected through encrypted systems, secure storage, and strict access controls compliant with GDPR.

Work With Us

Discover how our approach to financial management can help you achieve your goals with confidence and clarity.

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