Rebecca Owers
Head of Wealth and Specialist Customer Channels
Joined in 1998
UK
Growing up, I never imagined I would go into banking. I’m from a working-class background – my dad worked on cross-Channel ferries and my mum was a school dinner lady. I didn’t know anyone who went to work in a suit. Yet here I am now, nearly 30 years into a successful and rewarding career at HSBC.
It began somewhat by chance. I started a law degree but dropped out after two years because I needed to earn money. When I heard that HSBC was looking for trainee financial advisers, I decided to give it a shot – and I haven’t looked back. I felt like I had a point to prove, so I completed my qualifications quickly.
People person
I loved the job. I realised that building relationships with people, both clients and colleagues, was what made me tick. I worked my way up and now lead a team of 500 people across the UK. They include customer-facing colleagues, who provide holistic financial planning advice on everything from investments and retirement planning to leaving a legacy. They work alongside a large team of technical specialists who put these plans into action. I’m constantly hearing stories of the difference our services have made to people’s lives. It’s so rewarding.
Once I started actively seeking sponsors, and being clear about what I wanted to achieve, it unlocked opportunities for me
More than 40 per cent of our financial advisers in the UK are women, compared with an industry average of 19 per cent. My senior leadership team is 50 per cent women. I’m proud of these statistics. The better our workforce reflects society, the better we can serve our customers. It’s so important, particularly with research showing that many women prefer to work with a female financial adviser.
Supported to thrive
HSBC has been a supportive employer for me at every stage. It has enabled me to thrive at work, while also being a present mother to my daughter, now 11. After maternity leave, I wanted to work part-time and to take the next step in my career. The bank approved my flexible working request, and I was promoted to a regional head role.
In 2023, I completed an MBA, which was funded by the bank, via a government scheme. I was also given time to study. I graduated with distinction, which was a milestone moment for me. I was able to put to bed any lingering disappointment I felt about dropping out of university.
Support has come from many colleagues, too. Early on in my career, I realised the importance of sponsorship – of finding someone to champion you and help you reach your goals.
Once I got out of my comfort zone and started actively seeking sponsors, and being clear about what I wanted to achieve, it unlocked opportunities for me.
Now I try and support others, too. I’m sponsor of the UK Menopause Community at HSBC and am actively engaged in improving social mobility. I’m also an ambassador for one of our Pride networks, an employee resource group for LGBTQ+ colleagues.
Not long after I joined the bank, my sister died from suicide. She was gay and had bipolar disorder and went through some really challenging times. The whole experience has been a driving force in my life. It’s made me want to do things that make a positive difference. I’m grateful that HSBC has given me the space and autonomy to do this.
