Cowens Careers: Building Futures- Part Two
Featuring: Lisa, Matthew & Oliver
In Part One, we explored how Lisa and her sons first joined the business. In Part Two, we look at how their careers have developed, the training they’ve received, and what it means to build a future at Cowens as a family.
1. Early Careers & Development
Lisa: The Evolution of Cowens
Q: What stands out most from your early days at Cowens?
Lisa: Everything being manual. No computers. Lots of paper. A formal dress code. It was a very hands-on environment where everything relied on phone calls and face-to-face interaction.
Matthew: From the Unknown to Broking & Risk Surveying
Q: How did it feel starting your career here, and how did your role develop?
Matthew: Starting any new job is daunting, but having grown up around Cowens helped. I already knew many of the people, so the unknown wasn’t quite so scary.
I’m proud to follow in the footsteps of both my Mum and Dad. Cowens has done a lot for my family. In fact, because my parents met here, I always joke that I literally wouldn’t exist without this business!
The opportunities I’ve had have been brilliant. Working in both Broking and Risk Surveying has given me a deeper understanding of material risk, security, construction, and building materials, which helps us win business and give clients the right solutions.
Oliver: Why Financial Planning?
Q: What drew you into financial planning and paraplanning?
Oliver: My Finance A-level sparked my interest. And my dad was an insurance broker, but I didn’t fancy that route!
Paraplanning is the natural next step for anyone aiming to become a financial adviser. It’s technical and detailed- shaping advice, drafting client reports, and supporting advisers. You start thinking like an adviser without the pressure straight away. It’s the perfect stepping stone.
2. Family Influence & Career Motivation
Lisa: Watching Two Sons Build Their Careers
Q: How does it feel seeing your sons working at Cowens?
Lisa: I’m immensely proud of them and what they’ve accomplished.
Matthew: Inspired by Stability & Support
Q: How did your mum’s experience influence your decision to join?
Matthew: A lot. In Mansfield, proper career opportunities are limited. Cowens is one of the few places where you can build a stable future.
My Insurance Certificate and Diploma were funded by Cowens, and last year the business also paid for my NEBOSH General Certificate, including accommodation for two weeks in Birmingham.
Seeing how well Mum was looked after gave me confidence I’d be in good hands too.
Oliver: A Different Perspective, Same Conclusion
Q: Did your mum or brother’s experiences shape your path?
Oliver: Definitely. Their experiences showed me Cowens was a place where people were supported.
In Mansfield, genuine career opportunities are rare. Cowens offered that. My Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning was fully funded- a huge investment in me both financially and in terms of trust. It made the decision to stay and grow here an easy one.
Closing Reflection
Across two generations and three career paths, one theme stands out: Cowens is a place where people can build long-term, meaningful careers.
From Lisa’s first day in 1984 to Matthew’s broking expertise and Oliver’s journey towards becoming a Financial Planner, this is more than a family story; it’s a celebration of opportunity, development, and a business culture that invests in people.
