Building a Long-Term, Client-Centric Investment Business: Kevin O’Hagan

Kevin was with one of the Canadian banks before joining Edward Jones four years ago. He felt restricted in his personal and professional growth when he started to explore other avenues. After speaking with several Edward Jones advisors in his region, the opportunity began to feel like a perfect fit, and years later, he is sure he made the right decision.

“Prior to Edward Jones, I worked for one of the big five Canadian banks in a business development role sourcing new investment relationships. I did this for over eight years, but over time, I felt the excitement and mental growth component diminish as did my desire to keep doing this for another 20 years. I was no longer challenged intellectually and wanted to continue growing personally.

“I explored a variety of opportunities that would allow for my personal growth and ability to serve clients. I evaluated bank brokerage channels, insurance companies as well franchise models in the financial industry. None really fit the ability to service clients in a manner that appealed to me, as the corporate agenda always seemed to overshadow my needs and those of my prospective clients. I always wanted to work for a firm that would value my input. I also knew I wanted to be a part of a larger organization to satisfy my need for the social aspect of professional life, which was important alongside my career growth objectives.

“I was approached by Edward Jones, and not knowing a lot about the firm, to be honest, initially I didn’t give it much consideration but told myself to be open-minded as good things can come from new experiences.

“It was only after the regional leader challenged me to explore the opportunity that I started to see that it was exactly what I’d been looking for. The region’s financial advisors took the time to answer all my questions and explain the Edward Jones opportunity so that I could make an informed decision.

“After some time, I realized that Edward Jones was the right place for me: I felt that I could work within the independent model that also allows for guided support. It took me some time to understand the way the firm operates as it was a big step away from a corporate environment. I started to see that it was not only about profit at Edward Jones. I came to understand that the firm is all about partnering with you to build a long-term client-centric investment business.

“It’s been almost four years since I started, and I know that I made the right decision to join this firm. I look forward to many more years of helping the firm build a stronger position in the Canadian investment landscape whilst servicing more investors as we continue to hire new and develop existing financial advisors in pursuit of this dream opportunity.”

If you’re ready for a rewarding career as a financial advisor, you can learn more about the opportunity or find an opportunity near you to connect with a recruiter. Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn.