Rod Severn
by Susan Edmunds
Rod Severn
Rod Severn wrote to members telling them that PAA had been hit financially because a number of advisers had registered for the events but had not turned up.
The roadshows, run in conjunction with the IFA, were held in 11 centres over three weeks.
Across the country, just 191 of the 265 people who had registered with the PAA to attend the events turned up.
Severn said he had “heaps” of response to the message.
“I spent the entire day wading through emails and responses. More than 90% were supportive and encouraging. From where I sit. I think it was the right thing to do.”
He said most replies were from people who had gone and were disappointed not to have seen more advisers there.
“People need to go to events so they maintain their relevancy and professionalism.”
Some members told him the PAA should charge those who registered but did not turn up. Severn said he did not want to do that. “But if it continues that might change.”
Other commentators said the problem could be that advisers did not see as much value in free sessions. Severn said members paid indirectly for the roadshows through their subscriptions. “Most organisations don’t charge for their training. We’re trying to remove barriers to training, not increase them. I would be reluctant to start charging for people to come along to training. It’s put on as part of our service to them.”
Severn said the PAA had worked to improve the calibre of the presenters at the roadshows. “We’re trying to give advisers a real reason to take time out of their practice to come along. This round all the speakers were very good.”
He said the sessions were structured so that advisers could just attend the relevant portions. Severn said one email had suggested separate roadshows for risk, investment and mortgage advisers.
But he said that was too much to expect from the presenters. “I understand what they’re saying but it won’t happen."
He said advisers needed to support things such as the roadshows.
"The advisers are requested daily to turn up to things, product providers, groups, associations, there is a real contention for their availability. I understand that. If they want to remain relevant and be seen to do the right thing by clients and industry they need to support it.”
IFA boss Fred Dodds said he was not concerned with the IFA turnout.
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