Russell is the founder and Principal of Oakwood and set up the company in December 1998 after a hugely successful career as a Mortgage Consultant for a corporate estate agent spanning over 10 years and achieving such accolades as the top performing consultant in the country. Russell started his career in finance some 27 years ago as a Trainee for the Woolwich Building Society at his local branch in Cambridge and quickly became their youngest appointed manager at that time.  During his time at the Woolwich he spent 2 years developing the profile of the Bournemouth branch and making it successful before returning to the South East.  Having enjoyed his time on the coast, Russell found the temptation to move back here irresistible and returned to Bournemouth where he joined Fox & Sons estate agents, turning their Winton branch into the flagship office for mortgage advice. Wanting a new challenge, Russell accepted a partnership with a local Independent Financial Advisors which was "quite a learning experience" says Russell "but it opened my eyes to the benefits of independent advice and I felt I could do it much better!" and so Oakwood was formed. Russell's hard work, drive and passion for giving the best advice, coupled with providing warm and friendly service is what has helped make Oakwood the success it is today. Russell has the support of his wife and 3 children  enabling him to build Oakwood to it`s current position.