A Journey in Finance | Insights from the Verve Group | S3 E1

Cathi Harrison, CEO of the Verve Group joins moneyinfo’s Managing Director, Tessa Lee on the first episode of Season 3 of The AdviserTech Show. Cathi shares her journey in the financial services industry, a path she found when her curiosity was piqued by a friend's inheritance and the need for financial advice. Despite not initially studying finance, Cathi started her career as an administrator at a financial advice firm in 2005. Over the years, she evolved into a paraplanner and eventually ventured into entrepreneurship, founding multiple businesses.

Cathi’s journey led to the creation of the Verve Group, a consolidation of various businesses, each offering essential support to financial advisers. She discusses the challenges and complexities of merging these entities into a unified organisation, highlighting the importance of shared technology and streamlined processes. The result is a “one-stop shop” for advice firms, providing comprehensive support for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Cathi also emphasises the evolving nature of the financial services industry, where firms are increasingly adopting a business-first approach, focusing on infrastructure, operations, and profitability. She believes that embracing change and innovation is essential in this dynamic environment.

Beyond her role at the Verve Group, Cathi discusses her involvement with the Verve Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation aimed at promoting careers in financial planning and advising. She acknowledges the need for greater awareness of these career paths and the benefits they offer, especially among young professionals and career changers.

In closing, Cathi offers insights and encouragement for individuals looking to enter the financial services industry or embark on an entrepreneurial journey. Both Cathi & our moneyinfo MD Tessa Lee emphasise the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone in the industry, particularly women and underrepresented groups. Cathi believes in challenging the status quo and working collectively to build a more diverse and innovative financial sector.

This podcast episode provides valuable insights into Cathi Harrison's inspiring journey, the evolution of the Verve Group, and the changing landscape of the financial services industry.