About us
John Owen – Director and Co-Founder
John is an organisational improvement and transformation specialist with over 35 years in financial services. As a Director at St. James’s Place, he led the engagement with the firm’s largest partner businesses, delivering business advisory support, designing frameworks for growth strategies, succession, and governance that are now embedded across the industry. He also oversaw SJP’s partner remuneration operations and chaired strategic forums connecting executives with advisers. He was a board member and Investment Director for several Financial Advice Practices.
Today, John serves as a consultant and board advisor, recognised for building trusted relationships with financial advice firms and their leadership teams. He combines commercial rigour with a pragmatic, human approach — offering clarity, structure, and constructive challenge to help businesses scale, strengthen governance, and prepare for the future.
Tel. +44 7798 765090
Email. John.Owen@TheNexStage.co.uk
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Claire Blackwell – Co-Founder
Claire is a board-level leader with more than 25 years’ experience helping financial services organisations grow responsibly through stronger client outcomes, governance and strategy. Formerly Chief Client Officer at St. James’s Place, she was responsible for the firm’s client proposition, brand, adviser marketing services and consumer strategy, helping prepare the business for Consumer Duty while strengthening client and adviser trust.
Today, Claire’s primary focus is Non-Executive Director, board and strategic advisory roles. She serves as a Non-Executive Director within Aviva’s UK Insurance, Wealth and Retirement business and as a Trustee of The Howard Partnership Trust, bringing expertise in customer strategy, conduct, reputation and sustainable growth. Claire is a Co-Founder of The NexStage, and continues to support the firm’s long-term vision. Known for her collaborative style and thoughtful challenge, she combines commercial insight with strong governance to help organisations make better long-term decisions.
Tel. +44 7880 785541
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Helping financial advice businesses manage risk, seize opportunity and deliver stronger results – now and for the future.
Let’s talk.