Dedicated Team
NI Financial Directions Ltd was established in 2015 by Terry & Patricia Cowan. Terry has worked in the Financial Services industry for over 30 years. Terry, along with Jonny Shannon (Pension adviser), Harry McLoughlin (Mortgage & Protection adviser), Declan Maginn (Mortgage & Protection adviser) and Michael McArdle (Protection adviser) are in a prominent position to offer the best financial advice to both new and existing customers.
Down through the years the advisers within the firm have embraced the continuous change within Financial Services, which is reflected in the service provided to their clients. As the client's circumstances change, NI Financial Directions Ltd helps manage that change.
Meet Our Team

With over 30 years’ experience in the Financial Service industry, Terry has consistently worked hard, putting in the long hours to give face to face advice to his clients who prefer knowing their adviser and meeting in a relaxed and comfortable environment, he still enjoys the role now as much as he did when he started all those years ago.
Terry started back in 1988 with the home service company ‘Pearl Assurance’. He has often attributed his success to the excellent training he received from his mentors which helped make the role of a financial adviser effortless. In 1992 he became a Section Manager for Pearl Assurance and then progressed to Area Manager in 1996. In 1998 he became District Manager and was responsible for one of the four Pearl Assurance offices in Northern Ireland.
When AMP of Australia (who owned Pearl Assurance) decided to close all operations within the UK in 2002 Terry decided it was time to set up business in his home town of Castlewellan and it was then that NI Financial Directions Ltd was born.


He offers his clients advice from their first home purchase right up to retirement. With his advice encompassing mortgages, insurance, investments, pension advice and equity release.
When not working, Jonny enjoys travelling with his wife and son and the now very occasional round of golf.

As a Mortgage & Protection Adviser, Declan plays a crucial role in guiding clients through the complex process of securing mortgages and ensuring their financial protection. With his expertise, he assesses clients’ financial situations, offering tailored advice on suitable mortgage products that align with their needs and circumstances. Declan navigates the intricacies of mortgage applications, helping clients understand terms, rates, and repayment options.
Beyond mortgages, he also educates clients on various protection plans, such as life insurance and critical illness cover, safeguarding their financial well-being. With a focus on transparency and integrity, Declan strives to empower clients to make informed decisions that secure their homes and financial futures.

With more than 35 years of experience in the Financial Service industry, Michael McArdle has established himself as a trusted professional. Through his commitment to providing face-to-face advice, he has cultivated strong relationships with his clients. Michael’s extensive expertise and unwavering support have enabled him to effectively guide his clients on their financial journey.
Michael embarked on his career in 1985 at Pearl Assurance, a home service company, where he received exceptional training that greatly facilitated his role as a financial adviser. As the years went by, Michael advanced to the position of Area Manager. When AMP of Australia (Parent Company of Peral Assurance) made the decision to cease all operations in the UK in 2002, Michael seized the opportunity to join AIG as Assistant Branch Manager for Northern Ireland. Recognizing the potential for growth, Michael took a leap of faith in 2004 and established his own business, MCA Financial Management, which operates under the trading style of NI Financial Directions Ltd. To this day, Michael continues to serve clients who seek personalised advice to attain their individual financial goals.

© 2026 NI Financial Directions. All Rights Reserved. NI Financial Directions Limited is an appointed representative of Quilter Financial Services Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in Northern Ireland, No: NI634135, Registered Office 31a Main Street, Castlewellan, County Down, Northern Ireland, BT31 9DQ.
Approver Quilter Financial Services Limited 09/05/2024
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