Blog post by Empower Wealth

Meet Tim Archer: The SES Volunteer Helping Aussies Retire Confidently

What makes someone walk away from a stable career in IT to step into the world of financial planning?

For Tim Archer, it was all about purpose. Today, he’s a Senior Financial Planner and Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) Specialist at Empower Wealth—but his path here was anything but traditional. And it all started with a podcast.

What drew you to the role?

“I was looking for a career change,” Tim begins. After years in the tech space, he wanted to do something with more immediate impact. “The difference between IT and financial planning is that here, you can actually help people in the moment. That’s what really drew me in.”

It wasn’t just the work that appealed to Tim—it was Empower Wealth’s values. “I actually started out as a listener of The Property Couch podcast,” he says. “What struck me most was Ben and Bryce’s ethical approach. It wasn’t about pushing products for commission—it was about genuinely helping people. That resonated with me deeply.”

What do you enjoy most about your role?

There’s no hesitation in Tim’s voice when he shares what keeps him going: transformation.

“There’s no better feeling than when a client comes in saying, ‘I think I’ll be working forever,’ and you get to show them that they can actually retire. Or that they’re closer than they thought. That’s powerful.”

Helping people shift from uncertainty to clarity—that’s what lights Tim up.

What do you do outside of work?

Tim’s dedication to helping others doesn’t stop at the office.

He’s a long-time volunteer with the SES, having served in both New South Wales and Victoria for over 15 years. “At night, I might be helping someone who’s had their house flooded or a tree come down. During the day, I’m helping people with their finances—it all ties together.”

And he’s made over 275 plasma donations, with a personal goal of reaching 600 by his mid-60s. “It’s just one of those things you do to give back.”

What has stood out to you most during your time at Empower Wealth?

Tim has worked in a number of institutions over the years, but he says Empower Wealth is different.

“It doesn’t feel like just a job here. It’s a career. There’s a sense of purpose and support. It actually feels like family, not just a place you show up to collect a paycheck.”

What can a customer expect during their initial consultation?

A lot of people come in with one simple question about superannuation, Tim says—but what they walk away with is so much more.

“It’s rarely just about the numbers. We start by talking about what you want to achieve. That could mean retirement planning, insurance, protection, or bigger picture goals. And often, it’s an education piece—clearing up myths and opening people’s eyes to what’s possible.”

Whether it’s a single question or a full plan, every consultation is tailored and conversational.

What do you wish more people knew about financial planning?

“I wish practical financial education was taught in schools,” Tim says, candidly. “Basic things like tax, super, or the power of compounding interest—people don’t realise how critical these are until it’s almost too late.”

He’s passionate about helping people take action early. “Small steps in your 20s or 30s can lead to massive outcomes later. It’s not about big leaps—it’s about consistency.”

How would you describe your experience at Empower Wealth?

“It genuinely feels like family,” Tim smiles. “You’re surrounded by people who care—about their work, their clients, and each other. And there’s flexibility too. I get to work with a wide variety of clients and staff, and I really enjoy that.”

From SES rescues to retirement strategies, Tim brings heart, experience, and a deeply personal approach to everything he does. His journey reminds us that financial planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about real people, real goals, and real change. Want to work with Tim or another member of our award-winning team?

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Categories: Financial Planning, SMSF Advice

Tags: Financial Planning