Get to know Barry O’Sullivan – financial planner at Lowes Financial Management.
I wanted to work in financial planning because…
Investing was, fairly unusually, a big topic of conversation within my household growing up. This, alongside my passion for helping people, sparked my interest in financial services. I joined Lowes in a technical, pensions-based role and transitioned into an advisory role so that I could work more closely with clients, looking at their overall financial situation and working with them to help them achieve their financial goals.
What you might not know about me is…
I’m a bit of a Park Run tourist! I’ve done the Great North Run numerous times and have also taken on the Edinburgh Marathon in the past. It’s a great way to relax and unwind.
One of the most rewarding experiences in my career so far has been…
When a longstanding client of Lowes sadly received a terminal cancer diagnosis. This was an incredibly difficult time for the family, but we got involved as early as possible in order to prepare the financial side of things, so that at least when the inevitable happened, the family had one less thing to think about. I find it really rewarding to be able to get involved with clients during very stressful, highly-emotional times and take just a small amount of the burden away from them.
If I could give my younger self one piece of financial advice, it would be…
Firstly, it is never too late to start. Secondly, using pensions is a great tax efficient way to save over the long term and, finally, compounding works best when it’s over the longer term. So, where possible, start as soon as you can!
When I’m not organising financial plans for my clients, I’m…
Usually running or cycling! I’ve completed the Coast to Coast ride several times, usually in support of a charity. I’m very active both in work and out of work.
If you’d like to start your journey to a more prosperous financial future, please visit www.lowes.co.uk to book your free no obligation consultation. Lowes Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Lowes Financial Management is one of the longest standing Independent Financial Advice firms in the UK, based in Jesmond, Newcastle. Regularly recognised in professional awards (including being named ILP Moneyfacts ‘Investment Adviser of the Year’, 2023) and were amongst the first firms in the UK to achieve the accreditation “Chartered Financial Planners”. With exceptional client satisfaction, over 97% of clients* would recommend Lowes to friends, family or colleagues. Lowes Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
*Lowes Biennial Client Satisfaction Survey, 2023
