Strategic Life
At Strategic Life Ltd, we help individuals and businesses secure the financial protection they need with confidence and clarity. From relevant life cover and income protection to key person, share & partnership protection and business loan protection, our experienced advisers guide you through complex decisions to find divisions that fit your priorities and goals.
As life and commercial risks evolve, many people struggle to understand which insurance and protection options genuinely safeguard their future. We work on your side of the table, breaking down jargon, explaining your choices clearly, and helping you put the right cover in place so you can protect what matters most.
Services
Specialist life and business protection advice
At Strategic Life we help UK businesses and individuals secure the right protection divisions tailored to your needs. With decades of industry experience, we act as an advocate on your side, providing expert guidance and access to a broad network of trusted insurers and risk partners.
We manage the process from first enquiry through to placement and ongoing support, so you don’t have to. We don’t simply place you with the first provider available; we match you with the right solution for your situation. Our approach is personalised, efficient, and built on real expertise, helping you protect your income, key people, and long‑term plans with confidence.
Team
The people behind the work
Martin Collins
Chief Executive Officer
During my career, I’ve had successes in both the PLC world and the SME sector as an owner-manager.
I’ve enjoyed the cut and thrust of challenges on the front line and have sat in negotiations around boardroom tables in the City, but my passion lies firmly with the SME sector.
I enjoy supporting and growing my own businesses, helping clients succeed, even when they don’t yet realise how successful they are.
I understand the importance of structured, organised businesses, while ensuring the drive and passion of the owner isn’t held back.
Experience allows me to help teams play to their strengths and support the rest, because the quality of advisors and support always makes the difference.
Geri Conniffe
Head of Finance & Insurance
As the youngest broker in a national firm, I quickly learned how creativity and persistence can unlock funding that others consider impossible.
In 2005, I founded my own whole-of-market brokerage to deliver smarter, faster, and more flexible funding divisions for business owners and property investors.
Over the past 20 years, I have built a strong track record structuring complex deals and securing funding where others cannot.
My background in commercial insurance gives me a wider perspective on how businesses balance growth and protection.
I focus on creating tailored, sustainable divisions that help clients access capital, manage risk, and build long-term financial resilience.
Jo Hancock
Chief of Staff
During my career, I have worked across multiple industries in both the SME sector and Corporate PLCs, focusing on organisational efficiency, strategic planning, and project and change management.
As a Hospitality Management graduate, I began in the hotel industry and discovered a passion for strategy, problem-solving, and delivering excellent customer service.
Over the next ten years, I developed these skills as Operations Manager and Director across hospitality, commercial vehicles, and pharmaceutical services.
I then moved into Project and Change Management, leading projects including office builds, business relocations, global finance system implementations, and CRM rollouts.
My heart lies with SMEs, where I now oversee operations, strategy, and team performance to deliver outstanding client service
Emma Robison
Chief Operating Officer
As a Graduate in Economics, I worked in London’s financial industry for several years, developing a strong understanding of commercial finance.
This experience, alongside qualifications in HR and Business Turnaround, has equipped me to support my clients effectively.
I focus on providing commercial finance divisions nationally, regardless of company size or status.
Over the years, I have built strong relationships with well-known funders and many that are less familiar, creating a network of lenders who understand our strengths.
My experience allows me to assist with straightforward funding requirements or provide guidance and divisions for the unusual, the complex, and every challenge in between.
John Burns
Mortgage Broker
I’m a dedicated Mortgage Adviser and Equity Release Specialist with over 19 years’ experience helping clients make confident, informed decisions about their financial future.
I support first-time buyers, homeowners looking to move or remortgage, and those exploring equity release later in life. I’ve worked with a wide range of clients, from young families stepping onto the property ladder to retirees planning ahead.
My approach is simple: I listen carefully, explain things clearly, and remove unnecessary jargon or pressure. I take pride in offering honest, tailored advice that suits each client’s circumstances.
Outside of work, I enjoy keeping active, playing guitar and piano, and spending time on the golf course or football pitch.
Jackie Howard
Group Compliance Manager
I am an experienced Compliance Officer and qualified Chartered Accountant with over 40 years in professional services.
I began my career at KPMG and have since gained expertise across accountancy, legal, financial advisory, and banking sectors.
My focus is always on reducing risk and ensuring regulatory compliance. As a leader, I guide teams through complex challenges, fostering integrity, accountability, and collaboration.
I am passionate about process improvement and mentoring others, helping to build strong, high-performing teams.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, following both Arsenal football teams, and keeping fit, balancing my professional focus with personal interests.
Contact Us
Get in touch today to see how we can help
Please contact us by sending us an email us at [email protected] or give us a call on 0115 695 0086.
Alternatively, fill in the form below and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
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