Profile
“We keep evolving the brand as we grow and expand, which is equally rewarding and satisfying”
Alice Phillips Topping
Ryan Specialty
Connor Ward has been a driving force at Financing Futures for over seven years, with the past four years dedicated to his role as an adviser. His exceptional people skills enable him to inspire clients to aim high and achieve their financial potential. His in-depth knowledge of lender policies and technical expertise have led to a remarkable track record of high approval rates.
In addition to his role as a top adviser, Ward serves as a director at Financing Futures. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping a positive office culture, which fosters strong staff retention, a solid work ethic and a commitment to excellence. His approach includes meticulous staff selection, thorough on-the-job training and the implementation of leading technology and best practice policies.
Ward’s team is recognised internally through performance-based incentives and regular social events that strengthen relationships and team spirit.
NZ Adviser’s Top Adviser award celebrates Ward’s exceptional contributions, the collective achievements of his team and the invaluable support from referrers and clients.
238 Songer St
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
Milestones
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females”
Alice Phillips Topping
Ryan Specialty
2022
2023
2024
Present
Present
Announced as Company Director
NZ Adviser’s Rising Star
2022
NZ Adviser’s Top Adviser
2023
NZ Adviser’s Top Adviser
2024
Mortgage Advisor at Opes Mortgages since 2022
Present
Co-Founder and Creator at The Future of Education Summit since 2023
Deputy Principal at Canterbury College since 2023
Present
Assistant Vice President and Senior Broker at MJ Hall & Company since 2018
Present
Milestones
• Gold award for Magazine or Newspaper Advertisement
• Silver award for Promotional Email
• Silver award for Most Out-of-the-Box Idea
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
“We keep evolving the brand as we grow and expand, which is equally rewarding and satisfying,” adds Phillips Topping.
“Marketing is a very busy space. The challenge is to keep it fresh and keep it new. There’s so much out there. You have to think about how to break through.”
Since joining the firm in 2015, Ryan Specialty has:
• completed 28 acquisitions
• launched 10 companies
“With each acquisition and de novo formation, a large branding component is involved,” says Phillips Topping.
Speaking on the importance of spotlighting marketing professionals, Phillips Topping says, “It’s imperative to shine a light on those who aren’t necessarily brokers or underwriters. There are so many different aspects of the industry. It’s nice to show all the great work that’s being done behind the scenes.”
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