Louwrens was born in 1969 in Bloemfontein. After his military service, Louwrens started his career in 1992 at the Smith's family brokerage. He obtained various qualifications in the financial planning and investment industry, and he is a member of the FPI and FIA. He became one of the youngest members in the history of the Insurance Brokers Council (now FIA) to be appointed as a director.

In 2000 Louwrens entered into negotiations to expand their family business to a national household brand by merging the then 'Wesvaal Brokers' into 'Optimum Financial Services Group' and trademarked the name. As a result of his passion for the financial planning industry, his total commitment to his clients, and successful exploitation of all available opportunities, Louwrens has become CEO and major shareholder of this dynamic practice.

Today the Optimum Financial Services Group of Companies has branches nationwide, with over 150 employees serving more than 15,000 clients.

In 2012 Louwrens fulfilled a lifelong dream when Optimum received its own Category 2 license and established its own unit trust funds. In 2014 he completed his Postgraduate Certificate in Financial Markets and Instruments - Wealth Management with distinction.

Louwrens’s passion is to make a difference not only in the professional arena but also in his community. He lives in Paarl, South Africa, with his wife and two sons, where he lead by example to serve others. He is the vice chairman of the Paarl Boys Primary Governing Body, and has been serving as member since 2016. He is directly involved in various annual fundraising events for CANSA and Opti-Mom (an internal NPO that focuses on making a difference where it is needed the most).

Louwrens' versatility is also reflected in his involvement in sports and aviation – among other things - he is a multi-engine rated pilot, skipper, keen mountain-bike enthusiast and golfer. He also enjoys jogging and fishing with his sons.

Robin Smith serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Optimum Financial Services Group in South Africa. In his role, he is dedicated to delivering cost-effective and innovative operational solutions across various domains, including accounting, human resources, payroll, IT, marketing, compliance, security, and travel.

Robin manages numerous businesses within the organisation, ensuring operational efficiency amongst them all.

Brett is the Regional Director of Optimum Direct Solutions UAE, a subsidiary of South Africa’s Optimum Financial Services Group.

Brett brings multiple years of experience within the financial services industry, previously owning a Top-3 franchise within the Discovery Limited Group distribution channel.

With a deep understanding of the unique financial needs of South African expatriates, Brett specialises in delivering comprehensive, tailored financial planning for South Africans, by South Africans.

Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, he leads and scales regional operations while advising clients on tax optimisation strategies through applicable Double Taxation Agreements. He also provides expert guidance on offshore investments, dollar-based life cover, and estate planning in the UAE, including the drafting and registration of wills. His mission is to ensure a seamless, well-integrated financial service experience for South Africans living abroad.

When he's not helping clients secure their financial futures, Brett is likely on the golf course. An avid golfer, he's always up for a round.