Meet Shane O’Brien: Driving Forward Group’s Growth with 15+ Years of Expertise

Get to know Shane O’Brien, Forward Group’s latest addition, as he shares his journey, career insights, and what drew him to the team.

With over 15 years of experience in Jersey’s finance industry, Shane is passionate about fostering collaboration, navigating challenges, and driving success. From his professional ambitions to his hobbies, discover what makes Shane a valuable part of Forward Group’s continued growth.

It is an exciting time for Forward Group. What attracted you to the role?

Several factors drew me to the role at Forward Group. First and foremost, I was inspired by the enthusiasm and vision of the leadership team. Their clear dedication to the continued growth and success of the business was incredibly motivating. The role itself stood out as a dynamic and varied opportunity, with the promise of broadening my knowledge and further developing my skillset. This combination of an exciting professional challenge and a forward-thinking team made the decision to join an easy one. On a lighter note, an added perk is that my dog, Blue, has been invited to accompany me to the office occasionally—a gesture that reflects the welcoming and supportive culture of the company.

How do you see your appointment benefiting Forward Group?

With over 15 years of experience in Jersey’s finance industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge from various roles within the Trust and Funds sector. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated adaptability, thriving in environments of change and challenge. I pride myself on remaining calm under pressure and having a keen eye for detail— essential in delivering high-quality outcomes in a fast-paced business setting. I aim to contribute these qualities to Forward Group, fostering a collaborative team environment while supporting the company in achieving its strategic goals.

Looking forward, what would you like to achieve within your role at Forward?

My primary objective is to contribute to Forward Group’s continued growth and success. Drawing on my experience, I hope to add value to the business by supporting the team, building strong relationships, and maintaining the highest standards in every area of my work. Forward Group’s core values align closely with my own, which will help me develop meaningful connections with both colleagues and clients. I am eager to play a role in shaping the future of the business while upholding the collaborative and innovative culture that makes Forward unique.

What motivates you to be the best you can be?

I have always been a competitive individual, driven by the desire to constantly improve and challenge myself. Whether personally or professionally, I strive to be the best version of myself and lead by example. I take pride in how my actions contribute to the greater good of the team. Creating and fostering a collaborative work environment—one that encourages open communication, teamwork, and collective problem-solving—continues to motivate me daily.


What opportunities can you see the role will bring you?

This role comes at an exciting time for Forward Group, as the business has experienced significant growth and transformation over the past year. I see this as a fantastic opportunity to contribute to its ongoing development and success. Being part of a smaller, dynamic organization means decisions can be implemented quickly, which benefits both the business and our clients. I’m eager to take advantage of the fast-paced, adaptable nature of the company to make meaningful contributions while continuing to develop my own skills and expertise.

Obviously, when working in a complex and busy environment, getting a good work-life balance is essential. How do you unwind? What are your interests outside of work?

Maintaining a good work-life balance is incredibly important to me, and I make sure to stay active outside of work. My four-year-old daughter and my dog, Blue, keep me on my toes, and I enjoy spending quality time with them. I also play five-a-side football two or three times a week, which is a great way to stay fit and social. When I can, I also like to hit the golf course for a few rounds. Being a lifelong Chelsea fan, I take any opportunity to attend matches whenever I’m back in the UK for work or family visits. These activities allow me to unwind, recharge, and bring a fresh perspective to my professional life.

Published
September 2, 2025
January 27, 2025
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