Profile
“My strongest professional quality is my ability to build trust and long-term relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or stakeholders”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
Connor Ward’s journey with Financing Futures spans more than eight years, with the last five spent as a dedicated adviser. Over that time, he’s become known for his genuine people skills – he’s the kind of adviser who not only helps clients reach their goals, but also encourages them to dream bigger and truly maximise their financial potential. His technical know-how is second to none; he has a deep understanding of lender policies and knows exactly how to use that knowledge to get results. It’s no surprise his approval rates are among the best in the business.
Ward’s success hasn’t just benefited his clients; it’s helped the whole business grow. In the past year alone, four new team members have come on board to support the increasing demand, and the business has moved into a larger, more prominent office right on Richmond’s main street. There’s even more growth on the horizon: Ward’s hoping to welcome another adviser in the next 12 months to help keep up with the momentum.
But what really sets Ward apart is his commitment to his team. He believes in celebrating wins together, with group incentives and regular social events that make everyone feel part of something bigger. For Ward, this award is a reflection of the hard work and support of his colleagues, referrers and clients, a true team effort from start to finish.
243 Queen Street, Richmond
035 479 333
connor@financingfutures.co.nz
linkedin.com/in/connor-ward-7a2609195
financingfutures.co.nz
Connor Ward
Director – Head of NZ Lending
Financing Futures
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Bio
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Profile
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Bio
Milestones
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Bio
Milestones
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
2017
2022
2023–2024
2025
Present
Joined Financing Future, supporting another adviser
2017
Appointed Company Director
NZA’s Rising Star
2022
NZA’s Top Adviser
2023–2024
NZA’s Top Adviser
2025
Financial Adviser at Vega since 2020
Present
Assistant Vice President and Senior Broker at MJ Hall & Company since 2018
Present
Milestones
Aug 2022
Milestones
Sept 2021
Feb 2022
Apr 2022
Jul 2022
Aug
2022
Suncorp Bank introduces Solar Home Bonus offer for customers who are choosing renewable energy for their homes
Sept 2021
Month-on-month market share growth commences
Feb 2022
Suncorp Bank wins the Canstar award for most outstanding value in investment loans
Apr 2022
Suncorp Bank wins Money Magazine’s Bank of the Year and Business Bank of the Year awards for the fifth year in a row
Jul 2022
Suncorp Bank’s turnaround times are the lowest they have ever been. The lender becomes Australia’s first certified carbon neutral bank for both its operation and transaction services
Aug 2022
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
A significant part of his focus today is staying ahead of regulatory change while maintaining a seamless client experience. He tracks updates from regulators and lenders closely and works with his teams to adjust systems as needed.
“My approach to my role and my career has always been rooted in passion, focus, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he says. “I’ve never been driven solely by profit or business metrics. I believe in hiring great talent, trusting them, and pushing boundaries because innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe.”
His experience isn’t limited to Canada. Ibrahim has worked in the US and UAE, which shaped his global perspective and comfort with adapting to different markets. He thrives on risk, viewing setbacks as stepping stones to progress.
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made,” he adds.
That outlook continues to guide his work and reflects his broader goal of helping move the industry forward. Through his brokerage, lending company, and legal services, Ibrahim is focused on creating long-term value for his clients, his teams, and others working in the field.