Every month, we share some highlights of what’s been happening in and around KBA.
This month, read the stories behind three fantastic KBA women who are winning in business, and at life…
Sarah Hogan has been nominated for multiple awards
Every year, Professional Adviser celebrates the achievements of women working within the financial advice community and the wider financial services arena. The Women in Finance Awards 2025 recognise the achievements of women in a sector where they continue to be under-represented.
There are dozens of categories and Sarah Hogan has been nominated for not one but four awards:
- Financial Adviser of the Year – North West ⭐
- Role Model of the Year – Small/Medium Firms ⭐
- Team Leader of the Year – Small/Medium Firms ⭐
- Outstanding Contribution to the Profession ⭐
This a true testament to Sarah’s leadership, dedication, and the positive impact she’s making in the financial planning profession.
Maura Baines is also up for a couple of Women in Finance awards
Maura, our brilliant Paraplanning Lead, has been nominated for two categories at the Women in Financial Advice Awards 2025 with Professional Adviser. 🏆
And the categories she’s in line for are:
- Rising Star – Advice ⭐
- Woman of the Year – Paraplanning ⭐
It’s the first time Maura’s been nominated for these awards, and very much deserved.
The incredible work she does behind the scenes supports both our clients and team every day, and we’re absolutely thrilled for her.
We couldn’t be prouder of Sarah and Maura.
Only problem now is we have to wait until November to find out the results. Winners will be announced at a black-tie event in Mayfair on Wednesday 12 November.
Our table is booked – now we just have to find something to wear…
Katie Conroy, our new Customer Consultant in Bury is up and running
Give a warm welcome to Katie Conroy, our new Customer Consultant based in our Bury office.
Having started in the role in May, Katie has already made a brilliant impression in the office. And has been busy making waves outside of work, too.
Here’s Katie to tell you more about her background and what possessed her to sign up to AJ Bell Great Manchester 10K Run…
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to KBA?
“Before joining KBA, I spent a year working at another bank/building society, which gave me a great foundation in customer service.
“After that, I took some time out to travel (which was amazing), before heading off to university to study Events Management.
“I’m currently juggling my studies alongside working here, and I absolutely love the balance.
“I was drawn to KBA because of the chance it gave me to learn something completely new while putting my existing skills to good use.
“As a Customer Consultant, I meet so many different people every day, and that’s honestly one of the best parts of the job. No two days are the same, and I’m really enjoying the variety and the opportunity to keep learning as I go.”
And you recently ran a 10K to raise money for The Christie?
“Yes! I ran the 10K for The Christie because it’s a cause that’s become really personal to me this year.
“Our family’s had a tough start to 2025, and The Christie has been an incredible support. It felt really meaningful to give something back.
“I also ran to support my friend Molly – it was her first ever race, so I was on pacing duty to help her get through it!”
“I’ve been running for a few years now, and one of my proudest moments was completing the London Marathon for Amnesty International.
“These days I run a couple of times a week, mixing it up with different types of sessions. For me, running is more than just exercise; it’s my time to clear my head, get some fresh air, and reset.”
The Christie Charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. One of the largest hospital charities in the UK, the charity ensures that they spend donations as cost effectively as possible – 88p of every £1 raised goes directly to cancer patients.
You can support Katie and donate to the Christie Charity here – every donation helps The Christie continue their life-changing work.