How to Manage Your Wealth After A Business Exit

Last updated on November 20, 2025

Have you just exited a business? Carly Burrows, Head of Corporate Finance at HSBC Innovation Banking, shares the three key steps to successfully manage your wealth.

After years of building your business, a new chapter begins. Carly breaks down how founders can turn an exit into lasting freedom and purpose, from setting personal goals to building a plan that grows with you. Here are the three steps to take:

This interview is part of our UK Exit 50, published in partnership with HSBC Innovation Banking, where we showcase the UK’s top 50 exits and IPOs, and uncover key exit market trends, plus the strategies, timing decisions, and wealth planning considerations that shaped these successful company exits.

1. Understand What you Want to Achieve Post-Exit

This is an intensely personal decision. For some, any payouts will likely go straight into building the next business. Others may be focused on securing their legacy and the long-term future of the family either through long-term investment instruments, or through succession plans that place the business into their hands. 

And of course, there are philanthropic opportunities to consider, should you wish to use your wealth that way. Each of these routes brings with it different tax and investment opportunities that need to be assessed.

2. Build a Bespoke Wealth Management Solution for your Needs

Whether you choose to become a repeat founder, angel, or prepare for your family to succeed you, it’s crucial to put the appropriate financial and legal measures in place to ensure you are well placed to execute your vision. Given how nuanced the solutions and possibilities are, it is advised to seek external advice around financial and legal possibilities around tax, investments, and control of your legacy.

This planning process can also lead to uncomfortable conversations with your business partners and family, so it’s best to consult an expert, explore your options, and structure the best possible solution.

3. Business Success is Just the Start

A successful exit is a significant achievement, but in many ways, it’s only the starting point of shaping your legacy. Taking the time to reflect on what you want your wealth to do, and then engaging experts to navigate the complex legal and financial implications of the options available, is essential for those aiming to achieve even more.

For more exit guidance and planning, click here to discover our UK Exit 50 Report.