Every month, we share some highlights of what’s been happening in and around KBA.
This month, Sarah Hogan, our Company Director, delivered an inspiring talk to mark International Women’s Day, we threw a party to celebrate the opening of our Spinningfields office, and we welcomed two new people to the team.
First though, two important work anniversaries to mention: our Company Director Sarah Hogan has been with us for 17 fabulous years and Marketing & Events Executive Emma Bell celebrated three brilliant years with us.
Sarah Hogan made her mark on International Women’s Day
A handful of women from KBA The Financial Planning Company enjoyed a great afternoon at Banyan Spinningfields to celebrate International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March.
During the event, hosted by our friends at FACT3, our Company Director, Sarah Hogan, delivered an inspiring talk on fiscal fitness, sharing her personal experiences that led her to where she is today. We also enjoyed fantastic talks on physical fitness and mental fitness from other inspiring ladies.
A big thank you to FACT3 for inviting us along and providing fabulous hospitality throughout – it was a truly wonderful day.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for video highlights of Sarah’s speech.
It’s party time, as we celebrated the opening of our Spinningfields office
This March we marked a momentous occasion for KBA as we hosted our “Spring Into Spinningfields” event. It was a wonderful gathering, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of celebrating new beginnings.
Since opening our Spinningfields office last June, we’ve embarked on an exciting journey of growth and expansion. This event was just one of the many steps we’re taking to establish ourselves in the vibrant city of Manchester. We’re thrilled to have taken this leap and are eager to continue building relationships and connections within the community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to David Burgess Magician for enchanting our guests with his captivating performances, and to Sunset by Australasia for their warm hospitality throughout the event.
As we reflect on the success of “Spring into Spinningfields”, we’re reminded of the importance of fostering connections and creating memorable experiences for our clients and connections. We’re committed to bringing you more opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate together.
Stay tuned for upcoming events and exciting updates as we continue this journey together. Thank you for being a part of our story.
Meet Conor Quealy, our new Business Development Manager
Joining our Senior Management team, Conor works closely with our Financial Planners and YBS agencies, leveraging his expertise to provide them with tailored support and resources to excel in their roles.
We sat down with a pot of tea and biscuits and asked him to tell us more…
What is your background, what were you doing before you joined KBA?
I’ve dedicated over 35 years to financial services, primarily in sales and sales management roles. It’s been a journey that started early in my career!
What attracted you to KBA The Financial Planning Company?
Initially, it was the drive and ambition of Sarah and Jack. However, what truly drew me in was KBA’s clear focus on its 2030 goals and the opportunity to contribute to those goals.
I was eager to work alongside a dedicated sales team, helping them grow and make a meaningful difference.
Can you tell us a bit about your new role?
My primary goal is to relieve Sarah of the day-to-day responsibilities of managing the Financial Planner team. This allows her to focus more effectively on shaping and developing the future of the business as Company Director.
What about your job do you find most rewarding?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is helping the Financial Planner team surpass their personal and company targets. Seeing their growth and success is incredibly fulfilling.
How was your first week?
It felt like going 10 rounds with Mike Tyson, but I survived, albeit feeling a bit punch-drunk!
So far, what do you enjoy most about working here?
The welcoming atmosphere. Everyone has been incredibly supportive, and there’s a genuine willingness to help each other succeed.
What’s your focus right now and what are you most excited about in the coming months?
My current focus is ensuring that each member of the team meets their targets by the end of June. Additionally, I’m excited about contributing to achieving the company targets by the year-end.
Meet our new Agency Manager, Penny Bennett
After spending more than 20 years at Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), Penny joins us as our new Agency Manager in Southport.
We caught up with Penny over a cuppa to find out more about her background and what’s she’s looking forward to as part of the ever-growing KBA family.
Here’s what we learned…
Background: With over 20 years at RBS, I’ve enjoyed diverse roles from Branch Manager to Area Manager. I also ventured into entrepreneurship, setting up and eventually selling my own business. Additionally, I played key operational roles in startups and a Claims Management Company.
Attraction to KBA: There were multiple things that attracted me to KBA: the firm’s ethical stance and commitment to caring for clients, team members, and driving growth intrigued me. The resulting opportunities for personal and professional development sealed the deal.
Job title and colleagues: As the Agency Manager in Southport, I collaborate closely with Andrew Sumner, Lisa Roberts, Julie Leeson, Sue Bennett, Joe Webster, Hannah Needham, and Gary Fletcher.
Position overview: My role involves guiding the team to prioritise customer care, ensuring their protection and well-being.
Most rewarding aspect: Witnessing team members and customers thrive and find fulfilment in their lives is incredibly gratifying.
First week experience: My first week was fantastic! Visiting our agencies and meeting such supportive people reinforced the positive company culture and values.
Enjoyable aspects of working at here: The kindness and support from my team and colleagues have been truly motivating and rewarding.
Current focus: My main focus is fostering a positive, valued team environment to deliver exceptional service to our customers. I’m excited about the growth and development opportunities ahead.
Additional interests: Outside work, I cherish spending time with family and friends, hitting the gym, learning netball, walking my dog, and meeting new people.
If you’re in the area, be sure to pop in and say hello to Penny and the team in Southport, you’ll be sure of a warm and friendly welcome.
