David O’Hara

Describe your role at Corbel Partners.

It’s extremely varied. I deal with the firm’s finances to make sure projects are funded, and that advisers, staff and suppliers are paid. I’m also responsible for recruitment, supervision, and training, as well providing a sounding board for advisers to help them grow their businesses and keep them running efficiently.

Together with Paul and Anthony, my other key responsibility is ensuring that our strategic planning keeps our group and our advisers at the top of their field.

What’s your background, and how did these experiences lead you to Corbel Partners?

I’ve always been fascinated by the financial world and was already buying and selling shares while studying for my O and A levels. But it was the planning aspect, and dealing directly with clients, that had me hooked.

Having my own business was always paramount, so I started as a self-employed adviser for an insurance company, then became an independent financial adviser. Those experiences meant that when Paul and I set up Corbel, we had a clear plan of what we wanted to do, but just as importantly a firm idea of what we didn’t want to do.

What do you think makes Corbel Partners different from other networks?

Independence, independence, independence. We aren’t beholden to any provider or fund manager, so advisers can always provide tailored solutions for their clients.

Also, we have a flat management structure, meaning we aren’t a faceless organisation. If an adviser has a query, they can simply pick up the phone or email – or shout if they’re in the same office! – and speak directly to the person they need to get an answer.

In your view, what does the future look like for Corbel Partners?

Demand for genuine independence within the adviser community will continue to increase, and we’re ideally positioned to meet this demand. We’ll continue to grow so everyone in the group can benefit from better buying power, greater economies of scale, and market-leading terms.

What do you enjoy most about Corbel Partners?

Seeing advisers grow and develop both professionally and personally, and the satisfaction of knowing we’re helping them achieve their goals. Some of our advisers joined before we even had grey hair, so we’ve seen their businesses grow and mature, and their families too.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spare time? I should be so lucky. I have two children, two dogs, and a wife with an A4 sheet containing a list of jobs for me to do…