Podcast #159: Unifying adviser tech: solving the complexity puzzle, with Defaqto’s John Milliken

In this week’s episode,  Matt and Sue are looking into one of the most consistent challenges faced by advice firms: technology complexity.

They are joined by John Milliken, CEO of Defaqto, to talk about how advice businesses can move from integrating multiple tech platforms to a more unified operating model. Advisers regularly face the frustration of juggling many different software platforms that don’t talk to each other, creating inefficiencies and compliance risks too.

In this episode, Matt, Sue, and John discuss:

• Integration vs. unification: What this shift means for advisers and why it matters.
• Adviser pain points: Where current tech stacks fall short and how firms are feeling about being weighed down by complexity.
• Day-to-day changes: How a unified operating model can simplify workflows, strengthen compliance, and give advisers more confidence.
• Managing change: How firms can adopt new technology at a pace that works for their business.
• Key takeaways: John’s top insights for advisers navigating technology challenges.

Listen now to hear how things are changing in the adviser tech world that look set to transform the efficiency and effectiveness of many advice businesses in future.

Click here to listen to the episode mentioned in this podcast, with Octopus Investments’ Toyin Oyeneyin and Tim Dickens!

Also, be sure to check out this episode and all other episodes of IFA Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon.

John Milliken

John Milliken is Chief Executive Officer of Defaqto, Fintel’s Software & Data division, responsible for driving the strategy and growth of the UK’s leading provider of adviser technology, data and insight. Since joining in March 2021, John has led the evolution of Defaqto within Fintel, strengthening its role as a trusted benchmark and insight partner to the financial services industry.

Prior to Defaqto, John held senior leadership roles in high-growth technology and fintech businesses, including CEO of Speechmatics and a founding member and Managing Director at Monitise. John holds a Joint Honours Degree in Philosophy and Pure Mathematics from the University of Liverpool.

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