Meet The Team
Ian McKenna
CEO and Founder
Ian founded Financial Technology Research Centre in 1995 nearly two decades before “FinTech” became part of the industry lexicon.
A boutique consultancy the firm focuses on how personal finance organisations can communicate more effectively with their customers and help them take better financial decisions. As part of this work the firm work with many of the U.K.’s leading long-term savings institutions, financial advisers and technology providers to identify emerging technologies that can transform customer relationships. More recently the firm has added its own InsureTech and RegTech ventures to help advisers ensure they help consumers find the life insurance and workplace pensions solutions that best meet the needs.
In addition to developing a UK view Ian travels extensively to identify similar trends around the world and the lessons that can be learned from other countries.
Jason Green
Chief Commercial Officer
Jason previously spent six years at a High Net Worth advisory firm as a paraplanner to the CEO. Joining FTRC in 2011 as a Research Consultant, Jason has subsequently been appointed Head of Workplace Research, and leads our Workplace Pensions & Savings research and insights, focusing on Group Pensions/Master Trusts, Auto-Enrolment and Financial Wellness.
Alongside this he manages our Digital Wealth Insights analysis. www.digitalwealthsights.com is service to benchmark WealthTechs and other related FinTech companies consistently against their peers to provide effective analysis and insight.
When not in office Jason will be planning his next overseas adventure or exploring the London restaurant scene.
Dee Adam
Operations Manager
Dee has worked in financial services for over 30 years, with her previous background including time with the Department for Work and Pensions and latterly, a number of financial advisory firms.
She is experienced in organising and supervising administrative activities in busy commercial environments, with extensive knowledge of the Wealth Management and Employee Benefits’ financial planning processes. Her operational functions have included areas such as HR, compliance, technology, and marketing.
Dee has joined FTRC as an Operations Manager and works alongside the team to create, deliver, and manage all its services, ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the company. She never knows what is going to land on her desk and loves a challenge!
Outside of work, Dee loves exploring the great outdoors and is currently on a mission to conquer all the Wainwright fells. When she isn’t hiking, she enjoys travelling to new destinations and experiencing new cultures.
Adam Wilson
Advice Tech Analyst
Adam joined Financial Technology Research Centre in 2025, bringing over a decade of experience in financial services with a focus on data, reporting, process optimisation, system integration, and driving operational efficiency across teams. He works across FTRC and its sub-brands to help advisers make smarter technology decisions by simplifying complex information and improving workflows through automation and visualisation.
Outside of work, Adam’s often pitch side watching rugby union – supporting England or cheering on his local team, Leek RUFC, where he previously played. He’s also a regular at Vale Park following Port Vale and enjoys long walks in the countryside with his fiancée Shona and their Shiba Inu, Oscar.
Samantha Smith
Business & Events Manager
With over 30 years in Financial Services, Sam started work for a small Devon based IFA followed by nine years working for NFIFA/IFAA, a precursor to the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, in marketing and communication roles. She was involved many IFAA initiatives including the national promotion of Standardised Definitions for Critical Illness Insurance and the production of the “Value of…” range of booklets created by the Association to promote independent financial advice.
Sam joined FTRC in 2003 initially as Office Manager and has taken on a number of roles over the years. Her current remit sees her provide administrative support to ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the company and also running various FTRC events including our highly successful Empowering Advice Through Technology Conference.
Outside of work Sam enjoys going to the theatre and gigs, supports Everton FC (when they’re winning) & is an ardent Formula 1 fan – even the 5am races!
Jessie Leworthy
Communications Coordinator
Jessie joined FTRC whilst studying for her BSc in Banking and Finance as an intern, and is now here full time. Whilst working at FTRC she has won ‘Trainee of the Year’ at the Europe FinTech Awards. Originally from Devon, in her spare time she enjoys surfing and spending time at the beach.
