Today’s Wills and Probate sits down with Provira’s Managing Director Steve Gauke to discuss his time in the wills and probate sector. Steve shares his thoughts on the good, the bad and ugly of wills and probate
TWP: What was your career path to your current role?
SG: I’ve always been interested in business, particularly how things work and what drives people. After completing my Master’s in Business Studies, I spent several years in professional services, working with the Law Society of England & Wales, a large accountancy firm, and some alternative legal providers. All of that experience gave me a good grounding in finance and legal work. I then joined one of Provira’s competitors to help set up its probate lending division, sparking an interest in the sector. When the chance came to lead at Provira, it just made sense. I’ve been here ever since.
TWP: What keeps you motivated in your work?
SG: It’s a few things really. I enjoy the challenge of growing a business. There’s always a new challenge and it keeps work feeling fresh. But what actually motivates me is knowing we’re helping people through a difficult time in their lives. Probate is hard from an emotional and financial standpoint so if we can make that easier for people, it matters. I’m also lucky to work with a great team here who really care about doing good work and helping people. When customers tell us we’ve made a difference, that’s what it’s all about.
TWP: What has been the best development in wills and probate in the last 20 years?
SG: Good question. There’ve been quite a few changes, but I’d say the way transferable allowances work now has been really positive. It’s become a lot simpler for families to claim these allowances and reduce inheritance tax bills. Simple changes like this can make a real difference when people are already dealing with loss. It feels like a fairer system and helps families keep more of what was earned and saved. In my opinion, anything that makes things clearer and more accessible in the probate process is progress.
TWP: And the worst?
SG: Unfortunately, the lack of coordination between HMRC and the Courts is still a problem. They don’t talk to each other properly, which creates delays and confusion for everyone in the chain from families to solicitors. It’s really frustrating because people in the process are already stressed and grieving. The last thing they need is different government departments not being on the same page. We’ve been calling for better systems and communication for years and really it shouldn’t be this hard to fix.
TWP: What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you regarding your career?
SG: The best advice I can give is to find something you actually enjoy and then work hard at it. When you care about what you’re doing, it doesn’t feel like a slog. Something else I was told early in my career is to try to work with people who share your values. The people you spend time with at work make all the difference. You don’t have to be best friends with everyone but if they’re smart, honest, and make you want to be better, that shapes everything about your work.
TWP: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out?
SG: It’s the same thing really, do something you enjoy and put the effort in. Be curious. Ask questions. Don’t worry too much about getting everything right straight away. Early on in your career, it’s more about developing good habits and staying open to learning. Also, try to enjoy it! Work should be rewarding, not just a grind. Find people who inspire you, stick to your values, and remember it’s okay (and quite important) to actually like what you do.
Today’s Wills and Probate was talking to Steve Gauke
