By: The FPI

We are pleased to unveil the top three finalists for the esteemed 2024 Financial Planner of the Year Award, presented by the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI).

These finalists represent the pinnacle of achievement in our industry and will compete for the title at the upcoming FPI Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner.

The winner of this year’s award will be revealed on 13 August at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town.

Please join us in congratulating the finalists in no particular order:

Gareth Collier, CFP^®

Gareth is deeply committed to financial planning, guiding clients towards lasting financial freedom through strategic investing and wealth creation. Holding a B.Comm degree from UNISA and certified as a Financial Planning® professional, Gareth serves as a director and shareholder at Crue Invest (Pty), recognized as one of South Africa's distinguished FPI Approved Professional Practices. His expertise extends to employee benefits, where he excels in crafting personalized, cost-effective solutions for employees.

Rudolph Geldenhuys, CFP^®

Rudolph graduated from the University of Stellenbosch with a Bachelor's in Commerce in 2012. He pursued further education at the University of Stellenbosch Business School, earning his Post-Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning in 2014, followed by a Specialized Post-Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Free State in 2018. Since 2016, he has been a Certified Financial Planner® registered with the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa.

With a career spanning since 2013 in the Financial Services Industry, Rudolph recently commenced his tenure on the Financial Planning Institute's Western Cape Regional Committee. Notably, during his studies at the University of Free State, he achieved top accolades in Investment Planning at the Financial Planning Law faculty.

René Van De Spreng, CFP^®

René is a wealth manager and Director at Apex Private Wealth. He has worked in the financial services industry, for both large corporates and independent advisory firms, for close to two decades. He has a deep passion for independent financial planning, investment management, retirement, estate, and tax planning. He serves as his client’s trusted thinking partner whilst understanding and addressing their needs.

On behalf of the FPI, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of the finalists for reaching the esteemed status of finalists in the 2024 Financial Planner of the Year Award. Their dedication and expertise exemplify the highest standards in financial planning.

As we approach the final round of the competition, we eagerly anticipate celebrating their remarkable achievements and recognizing the significant contributions they have made to our profession.