LOWES - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Head of Business Enhancement
Since day one of his financial services career, Alex was brought under the wing of Lowes and has progressed from a trainee position through to Financial Planner. His training began with our in-house Academy where he gained an in-depth knowledge of financial products and developed a specialist expertise in various areas of the business.
Although Alex studied Sport & Exercise Science at University, he always had a keen interest in economics and wanted to work in a profession to educate and help people with their finances.
If you would like to get in touch with Alex Molyneux, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Originally from Northern Ireland, Andrew moved to Newcastle to study Economics and Business Management at Newcastle University. Following his graduation, Andrew spent time working as a stockbroker in London before returning to Newcastle in 2005 to join the Lowes Technical Team. Building on this experience, Andrew decided become an Independent Financial Adviser, after realising he was happiest when speaking to clients on a day to day basis to build good, long-term relationships for years to come.
"There is a sense of responsibility, which I feel perhaps most when I'm advising people who need their investments to produce a regular and sustainable income because that is the income they are going to live on, that will influence their standard of living."
Outside of work, Andrew plays for a local rugby club and enjoys walking holidays with his wife and children.
If you would like to get in touch with Andrew Gardiner, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
After graduating from university in 2004, Anne-Louise joined the world of financial services, providing mortgage advice, as well as acting as a mentor to new recruits. It was here that she gained her financial services qualifications, which opened the door to her becoming a Financial Adviser at age 23.
Anne-Louise then spent time specialising in investment advice, before beginning her journey in independent financial advice in 2012. Having worked in financial services since the age of 18, Anne-Louise brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her clients at Lowes.
"I have always loved working with people to make sure their finances are in the best possible shape. Seeing the peace of mind well planned finances brings to clients makes my job so rewarding."
Outside of work, Anne-Louise is kept busy, with three boys and a dog to entertain, so weekends usually involve footy practice, a long walk and a trip to the soft play.
If you would like to get in touch with Anne-Louise Hudson, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Barry Hopper - Chief Commercial Officer
Job Titles:
- Commercial Director
- Adviser
Michael began his career in Financial Services in 2008, working in the North East and Edinburgh, in a variety of roles gaining invaluable knowledge and experience understanding the holistic financial planning advice process.
Michael joined Lowes in 2012, working first as a pensions administrator and progressing into a pension technical role. This required a great understanding in the ever more complex world of pensions and associated regulations.
After gaining invaluable experience within pensions, Michael moved to solely support Lowes Adviser Barry Hopper, where for three years he worked as a paraplanner. After forming strong relationships with clients, working to learn their circumstances and objectives, Michael made the natural progression to become an Adviser.
"I believe more people should be seeking professional guidance; one of the key benefits I see when giving clients advice is their peace of mind that their finances are in the best shape for their individual requirements."
Outside of work, Michael has a passion for rugby having represented England at U16 level and Novocastrians locally.
Barry's history with Lowes runs deep, having been an integral part of the team for nearly two decades. Following in his father's footsteps, Barry was a respected Financial Adviser for many years. He then transitioned into the role of Business Development Manager, before being appointed as Commercial Director.
Armed with his unwavering dedication to Lowes and his corporate background from his time at Sage plc and British Airways, Barry plays a crucial role in guiding the firm's growth, as well as streamlining the advice process to ensure our clients receive a first-class service.
"Whilst I really enjoyed the financial adviser role, I always felt that my corporate experience would prove of further benefit and working in such a capacity at Lowes was a logical step. I have known Ian Lowes for nearly fifty years, our families have worked together at Lowes for approaching forty years and whilst I hadn't banked on such, it seems like a case of destiny that I am now a director of Lowes Group."
When he's not driving the business forward, Barry is an avid cricket fan and loves spending time with his family and listening to choral music as his son has recently become a chorister at Newcastle Cathedral.
If you would like to get in touch with Barry Hopper, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Barry's career in financial services began after completing his master's degree in international financial management. He joined the financial planning team within a national legal firm, where his passion for helping people understand their finances ignited. Joining Lowes in a technical role, Barry worked his way up to becoming an Independent Financial Adviser where he brings value to clients through his vast experience and knowledge.
If you would like to get in touch with Barry O'Sullivan, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Non - Executive Director
Caroline was first appointed to the Board in October 1996 and now serves as a Non-Executive Director.
Caroline began her career in financial services in 1985 when she joined a local building society. It was in February 1987 that Caroline joined Lowes as an Assistant to the Investment Manager. Caroline's understanding of the company grew from strength to strength as she delved into various roles within administration, accounts and compliance departments, quickly rising to become an integral part of Lowes. After amassing a detailed knowledge of Lowes systems and procedures, Caroline was appointed as General Manager in August 1991.
If you would like to get in touch with Caroline Robinson, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Head of Compliance & Investments
Job Titles:
- Chartered Financial Planner
Following graduating from Newcastle University in 2014, Chris initially hadn't considered a career in Financial Services, having studied History. However, he quickly realised that he was passionate about making a difference in people's lives. So, in 2014, Chris approached Lowes to take the first step towards becoming a Financial Planner. Chris has worked in various roles over the years, initially in Structured Products and then in the Technical Department. Now, Chris works alongside Head of Financial Planning, Gershom Chan advising clients and providing technical support.
"I believe more people should be seeking professional guidance; one of the key benefits I see when giving clients advice is the peace of mind that having their finances are in the best shape for their individual requirements brings."
Outside of work, Chris is a big fan of films and an avid musician, having played in various bands since his teenage years.
If you would like to get in touch with Chris Brown, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Since starting his career in financial services in 1990, Chris has achieved the highest qualifications possible in the profession - being a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, an Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute, an Associate of the Pensions Management Institute, a Chartered Insurer and qualified as a Defined Benefit Pensions Transfer Specialist. These qualifications demonstrate enhanced technical knowledge and sophisticated financial planning skills.
Chris joined Lowes in 2016 to provide high quality financial advice and an ongoing service that makes a real difference to clients.
His philosophy is to ensure the long term financial and lifestyle goals of his clients and their families are met through trusted long term relationships.
Chris also works closely with corporate clients, pension schemes, trustees and other professional advisers.
If you would like to get in touch with Chris Large, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Administration Team Leader
Job Titles:
- Operational Change Manager
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Non - Executive Director
Debbie is a seasoned and passionate Financial Planner who joined the Lowes team in June 2023. With a wealth of knowledge across all aspects of financial advice, Debbie is dedicated to making a real difference in her clients' lives. Whether that's helping them to enhance their lifestyle, securing a better financial future or building a legacy for generations to come - her people-focused approach has been evident throughout her career.
Debbie's journey into financial advice began at Northumbria University where she obtained a degree in Financial Services. Debbie's flair for finances has never diminished, and she has continued to progress and gain qualifications, making her a true expert in her field.
Debbie understands the complexities of financial planning can be hard to navigate, but through simplified guidance she empowers her clients to take steps to achieve their financial goals.
"Understanding the needs and aspirations of my clients is massively important to me. I'm here to support and guide you on your journey to a more prosperous future."
When Debbie doesn't have her head in numbers, you might find her soaring high as she trains to become a Helicopter Pilot or exploring new places on her travels. It's not all adventure for Debbie though, as she loves nothing more than a relaxing trip to the spa.
If you would like to get in touch with Debbie Ramm, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Business Development Executive
Job Titles:
- Data Management and IT Support
Job Titles:
- Head of Financial Planning
Gershom grew up in Edinburgh and relocated to Newcastle in 2017 along with his wife and 2 children. After leaving University he started his career in financial services in 2008 working for the Banking sector where he trained as a Financial Adviser advising on wealth management and financial planning. His experience and qualifications in banking, financial planning and wealth management gives him a broad knowledge and perspective of financial services making him ideal to serve individuals and families in their personal finances.
If you would like to get in touch with Gershom Chan, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Dedicated Financial Planner
- Financial Planner
Dedicated Financial Planner, Greg, joined the team in 2023, after dedicating nine years of his career to mortgage and protection advice. His transition into holistic financial planning was driven by his profound interest in investments and the pivotal role they play in changing the trajectory of people's financial futures.
Supporting his clients in achieving their long term aspirations and goals through independent financial advice is what Greg finds most fulfilling about his role, here at Lowes.
"Making a positive impact on my clients' life is what good financial advice is all about. I'm here to help create a better future for both you and your loved ones."
Outside of work, Greg is an avid sports fan, with a real passion for football and NFL. Yet, above all, simply spending time with his daughter is what brings him the most joy.
If you would like to get in touch with Greg Skeoch, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
If you would like to get in touch with Harry Sharp, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Financial Planner
After studying Accounting at university, Helen decided to pursue a career in teaching, and went on to complete a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics. Following this, Helen enjoyed several years as a successful mathematics teacher. As time passed, she realised she had always been interested in finance and believed with the skills she had acquired through teaching she would be able to inspire and educate others. Helen completed her financial adviser qualifications and set up a teaching academy to support and inspire others to do the same. This resulted in her having a high level of technical understanding within the industry, so moving into giving advice was the next logical step and something she had been keen to do from the start.
If you would like to get in touch with Helen Grieves, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Ian Lowes - Managing Director
Job Titles:
- Managing Director
- Member of the Board
Ian Lowes joined Lowes in 1988 and has been the Managing Director since 2002 after taking over from his father, Ken Lowes, who established the firm in 1971. Ian is a Chartered Financial Planner and is a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade granted by the CII.
Previously recognised by Professional Adviser as one of the most influential voices in the country, Ian has secured a reputation as a leading authority in financial planning and in particular the structured product sector. As an established figure within the finance sector, Ian has, on a number of occasions, been shortlisted as IFA Personality of the Year and his opinion is regularly sought by journalists.
"Lowes has been built on an ethos that has not wavered since it was established - doing right by people."
Ian looks after a select number of clients, with the majority of his time spent on maintaining and building the business. He also makes use of his knowledge and experience by regularly assisting both clients and the media with many of the more technical issues of financial planning.
If you would like to get in touch with Ian Lowes, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Executive Assistant to Michael Stowe
Job Titles:
- Chairman
- Member of the Board
- Non - Executive Director
- Board As Finance Director
Jerry joined the Lowes Board as Finance Director in 1993. In 1995 he took up a new position as Managing Director of a long-standing corporate client of Lowes; DECIDE but retained his position on the Lowes Board as a Non-Executive Director.
Jerry joined Lowes in 1987 from HMRC having started his career in accountancy. Jerry holds an MA in Enterprise Management from Durham University Business School, is a fellow of the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Chartered Company Secretarie. Jerry is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Institute of Consulting, as well as qualifications with the Chartered Insurance Institute.
In addition to the above Jerry is Chair and member of the expert panel for Design Network North, is a founding member of the Geneva entrepreneurs' network, Brits in Business and is a former Chairman of the Northern Cultural Skills Partnership. Jerry also continues his close relationship Durham Business School as a member of the corporate advisory panel and guest lecturer.
If you would like to get in touch with Jerry Hall, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Client Servicing Executive
Former Technical Analyst and Investment Technician turned dedicated Financial Planner; Josh has been a valued part of the team at Lowes since 2019. His unwavering desire to build meaningful relationships, combined with his interest across the investment landscape, is the driving force behind his passion for providing expert financial advice to his clients.
Josh's journey began at Northumbria University where he obtained a first-class degree in Finance and Investment Management, and his enthusiasm for numbers hasn't dwindled since.
Josh understands finances are more than just numbers and charts, they are deeply intertwined by aspirations, and so, empowering his clients to make informed decisions about their financial future is something he is devoted to.
"It's massively important to me that my clients feel confident and reassured in their financial decisions. The world of finance can be complicated, but I'm here to make it straightforward."
One of Josh's greatest joys in life is football, and he proudly holds a season ticket at Newcastle United. When he's not cheering on his club or supporting his clients, Josh can be found exploring the corners of the world.
If you would like to get in touch with Josh Mayne, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Josh began his career in Finance as a mortgage and protection adviser in 2018, after gaining a Masters Degree in literature with distinction from the University of Sunderland. Josh quickly realised he was passionate about building lasting meaningful relationships with clients and ensuring they get the best possible advice.
This first step into Finance started Josh on a path that led him to joining Lowes in 2022 as a Pensions Technician, having continued to develop his knowledge and expertise through study and examination with a desire to become a Financial Planner.
If you would like to get in touch with Josh Wall, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Client Servicing Executive
Job Titles:
- Financial
- Financial Planner
Number enthusiast Matt is well-versed in all aspects of financial advice. In his five years as Technical Analyst to Michael Stowe, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience which he is now putting to good use for the benefit of his own clients as a Financial Planner.
Before joining Lowes back in 2018, Matt's fascination for figures saw him achieve a first-class degree in Finance and Investment Management at Northumbria University. Matt soon discovered however that interacting and building meaningful relationships with people is where he derives most joy in his role.
If you would like to get in touch with Matthew Henry, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Non - Executive Director
- Chartered Financial Planner
Neil was appointed to the Board in April 2005 as Compliance Director and has maintained the position ever since.
Neil began his career in financial services as a graduate trainee within the Nationwide Building Society. Upon leaving 6 years later, Neil was successfully managing 2 branches in Central London. Career progression led Neil to various advisory roles within Building Societies, Banks, and following a period of travelling and teaching abroad, Neil became a Financial Adviser for Clerical Medical and HSBC. It was in 2001 that Neil joined Lowes as a Senior Technician, and within three years Neil was appointed as Compliance and Training Manager.
Neil is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade granted by the CII. His biggest personal accomplishment to date is in gaining Fellowship status with the Chartered Insurance Institute in 2004, closely followed by gaining a Distinction in his Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Services Law and Regulation with the Metropolitan University in 2006.
While at Lowes, Neil spent 5 years working with the Chartered Insurance Institute, first as an Examiner and later as Senior Examiner on their Advanced Trust Paper.
"I believe that education is an ongoing and lifelong process and is a vital part of maintaining competence in our profession. I hope I stand as a good example and am keen to encourage others to continue with their studies."
If you would like to get in touch with Neil McLachlan, please complete your details and you will receive a response at the earliest possible opportunity.
Job Titles:
- Financial Planning Administrator
Job Titles:
- Client Servicing Executive
Job Titles:
- Senior Investment Analyst
Job Titles:
- Client Servicing Executive