Atlantic Wealth Management, the Galway-based financial planning firm founded in 2024, has received national recognition following the announcement that its founder, Niall Leyden, has been named Galway Business Person of the Year 2025 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.
The recognition reflects the growing trust clients across Ireland are placing in the Atlantic Wealth Management approach to advising entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals as they navigate important financial and life decisions.
Speaking following the announcement, Mr Leyden said the award reflects the trust placed in the firm by its clients and the commitment of the Atlantic Wealth Management team.
“This recognition belongs first and foremost to our clients,” he said.
“We work with people who have spent years building successful businesses and meaningful lives. Helping them step back, plan their future and protect what they’ve built is a responsibility we take very seriously.”
Mr Leyden also acknowledged the Atlantic Wealth Management team, including Private Client Executive Connie Barrett, who has worked alongside him for more than two decades supporting client relationships.
Atlantic Wealth Management was established with a clear philosophy: that financial planning should begin with people and purpose rather than products.
“Our belief is simple: people first, money second,” Mr Leyden said.
“We start by understanding what matters most to our clients, their families, their businesses and the life they want to build. From there we help them create a clear plan for the future.”
The firm’s approach is built around three guiding principles: Purpose, Plan and Portfolio.
Purpose defines what truly matters.
The plan provides the roadmap.
The portfolio simply supports the strategy.
Atlantic Wealth Management works with clients across Ireland, with many relationships centred around entrepreneurs and business owners approaching significant transitions - including those planning to sell businesses, exit companies or make work optional in the years ahead.
Leyden dedicated the award to the firm’s clients, team and the city that has been home for nearly three decades.
“Galway has something very special,” he said.
“It’s a city built on community, creativity and courage: a place where people start businesses, support one another and believe in backing local.
“For nearly three decades this city has given us a wonderful life, and we’re incredibly proud to build a business here and represent Galway on a national stage.”
Originally from Sligo, Mr Leyden has lived in Galway since the 1990s and now lives there with his wife Brenda and their two children, Mark and Michelle.
In addition to leading Atlantic Wealth Management, he also co-hosts the WELLTH Talks podcast, featuring conversations with Irish entrepreneurs and business leaders about the broader meaning of wealth: not simply financial success, but purpose, freedom and life beyond business.
Atlantic Wealth Management is headquartered in Galway and works with clients across Ireland.
