About us
Founded in Canterbury by Max Sullivan, we provide financial advice with a simple difference: the freedom to put you first, without conflicts or product bias. Our approach is built on independence, transparency and a commitment to long-term value and shared success.
We support you through every stage of your financial journey – from building wealth in the early years, to planning for retirement, and preserving your legacy for the future.
Alongside our personal approach, we make full use of technology to give you clarity and control. This includes interactive cashflow planning to help you see your financial future clearly, as well as secure access to your investments and documents through our client portal and mobile app.
Why 'Archgate'
Our name was inspired by Canterbury’s rich heritage and historic landscape. It reflects the enduring strength and purpose of the city’s ancient gateways – places of transition, protection and progress.
Just as those arches once guided people safely through the city walls, ‘Archgate’ exists to help our clients navigate life’s financial crossroads with confidence.
Life's Journey
Our financial lives change as we do. At times you may be focused on buying a home or raising a family, later it may be about growing your wealth, planning for retirement, or passing it on to loved ones.
We guide you through these stages with clear, independent advice and the right tools to give you confidence about the future. Whatever life brings, we’ll be there for you, your family and your business.
Our Straightforward Advice Process
Step 1
Initial Consultation
A relaxed conversation to understand your goals, priorities, and current situation, with no obligation to proceed.
Step 2
Wealth Plan & Advice
We’ll create your personalised wealth and cashflow plan, giving you clear recommendations tailored to your needs.
Step 3
Implementation
Once you’re happy, we put your wealth plan into action, handling the setup and paperwork on your behalf.
Step 4
Ongoing Service
Keeping your plan on track and making adjustments as life, markets and legislation change.
The Power of Cashflow Planning
Life rarely moves in a straight line, and neither does your money. Our priorities naturally change over time, from building and enjoying wealth to planning for retirement and later-years.
Cashflow planning helps you see how your finances could evolve through these stages, bringing clarity to the “what if?” questions that matter most. It’s a powerful way to test different choices and give you the confidence that you’re on the right track.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate Cashflow Planning
Our Core Services
Wealth Structuring & Investments
Investing tax-efficiently for growth, accumulation or income
Retirement & Lifestyle Planning
Advice for both pre- and post-retirement, helping you make the most of your pensions and provisions
Estate &
Tax Planning
Inheritance tax, trusts and legacy planning to protect what matters most
Protection & Insurance
Ensuring your financial dependents and loved ones are safeguarded
Corporate and business planning
Tailored financial advice for company owners and professionals
Professional Connections
Working closely with accountants, solicitors and property experts to deliver joined-up solutions where required
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some aspects of Trust, Tax and Estate Planning
Client Portal and TRAM App
Managing your finances should be simple, secure and always within reach. That’s why every Archgate client has access to our online Finance Portal and TRAM Mobile App.
View your investments and valuations
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Track progress towards your goals
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Access documents & messages securely
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Whether on desktop or mobile, your financial world is always at your fingertips, giving you clarity, confidence and control.
Meet your Adviser
After more than a decade in financial services, I became Chartered as a Financial Adviser in 2023 – the highest professional standard in the industry. My focus is on providing advice you can genuinely trust, reflected by my 4.9/5 rating on VouchedFor from the clients I’ve helped.
Alongside my client work, I’ve contributed to various projects promoting financial wellbeing, including involvement with the Government’s Money and Pensions Service on retirement and later-life planning, as well as sharing knowledge through presentations and publications at schools, workplaces, professional events, and in the financial press.
I founded Archgate on three guiding principles: Independence, Flexibility, and Balance. These values shape not only the way I work but also the advice you receive at every stage of your financial journey.
Outside of work, you’ll often find me on the golf course, tackling a DIY project, or trying to finish a book! I live just outside Canterbury with my family but regularly travel across Kent, London, and the Home Counties to meet clients and professional connections.
Max Sullivan Chartered ALFBF
Founding Director &
Independent Financial Adviser
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Get in Touch
We aim to make working together as convenient as possible and offer a range of flexible meeting options.
You can choose to meet in the comfort of your own home, virtually or at one of more than 20 professional offices and meeting rooms across the Southeast.
Wherever and whenever we meet, you can expect a service that is personal, responsive and tailored to your needs.
