Peter Campbell: Advice for living well

Growing up in Bridgetown, Western Australia, Peter moved east to Melbourne, where his numerical ability caught the attention of a prominent figure in financial circles. Over time, a professional relationship developed and heartfelt conversations quietly changed the direction of a career.

Peter had considered the world of fund management. But after some sage advice and well-intentioned guidance, financial planning emerged as a better fit. It turned out to be a very good call.

“I was fortunate to meet a person who recognised my skills early, and with his guidance, I’ve been able to pull the right career levers at the right time. I take this learning into my work, knowing just how much of a difference considered, authentic advice can make.” 

Peter commenced his finance career in 2012 and has built extensive experience in senior advisory roles and as a CFO, helping a start-up bring an innovative technology prototype to the international stage. It was these experiences, coupled with his mentor’s advice, that eventually saw Peter find his place in financial advice.

“I have a knack for numbers, and at the same time, I get a great sense of accomplishment and reward from helping individuals and couples make smarter decisions and understand the potential of their financial future. It is the reason I have such a passion for this profession. I’ve been very lucky to have had the opportunities I’ve had, and at this point in my career, First Financial is very much my long-term home.”

The primary attraction to First Financial’s advice model is the freedom to find the right solution for each client rather than trying to fit people into a predetermined box. It reflects something Peter strongly believes: good financial advice needs to start with the person.

For Peter, one of the most important lessons about money came not from a finance textbook or investment market, but from a trip to Sicily.

While visiting a small mountain community, he met people who had relatively little material wealth but appeared remarkably happy and content. It made an impression.

Peter began thinking differently about the conversations he was having with clients. Instead of focusing exclusively on targets, whether that was accumulating $2 million, $3 million or $5 million for retirement, the more important question became: what do you actually want your money to allow you to do?

The numbers still matter, of course. But numbers without purpose are simply numbers.

Peter believes authenticity has become increasingly important in financial advice. Interestingly, a large number of his clients originate from James Wrigley’s social media presence. While social media might seem an unusual place to begin a serious financial relationship, Peter believes its effectiveness comes down to something very traditional: trust.

“People respond to advisers who communicate naturally, acknowledge that life isn’t always perfect and are prepared to have genuine conversations.”

It’s an approach that fits comfortably with First Financial’s philosophy of understanding what matters to a client before building their financial roadmap.

Outside work, Peter has settled in Parkville with his partner. He remains loyal to his Western Australian roots as a West Coast Eagles supporter. It has been a tough watch since their 2018 premiership, but, like his work, he is persistent and always optimistic. He enjoys gaming and has travelled extensively around Australia, including a memorable caravan journey from Perth through Uluru and down to Victoria.

“I’ve seen my share of international destinations. Nowadays, exploring my own backyard in the caravan is what my partner and I really enjoy. Financial advice is a fast-paced industry. You become very involved in a client’s life journey. This is incredibly humbling and worthwhile, but I do love the open road and great expanses we have in this country as an opportunity to reset.”

Perhaps that appetite for experiences helps explain his philosophy as an adviser. Building wealth matters. Planning matters. Investing wisely matters.

But ultimately, Peter believes money should help you live well.

Often, the best financial advice begins with a very simple question: what would a good life actually look like for you?

The team at First Financial comprises financial experts who help hundreds of Australians retire well and make informed, intelligent financial decisions. We cover everything from retirement and financial advice, investment and wealth management, superannuation and SMSF, insurance, tax, aged care, legal and lending services.

Contact us for holistic, well-rounded financial management strategies.