WEALTH September 23, 2026 0 Comments

Ex-Rugby Pro Niall Scannell’s Game-Changing Move Into NFP Sector—What It Means for Your Next Big Opportunity

Ever wonder what it takes to pivot from smashing tackles on the rugby pitch to mastering the nuances of wealth and financial planning? Well, NFP Ireland has just brought on board someone who’s done exactly that—Niall Scannell, a seasoned Munster and Ireland rugby stalwart, is trading scrums for spreadsheets as he joins their growing team in Cork. It’s not every day you see a pro athlete seamlessly transition into the complex world of finance, but with his track record of discipline, teamwork, and a solid arsenal of financial qualifications, Scannell is set to tackle the financial challenges of individuals and businesses alike. As NFP continues its Irish expansion, bolstering offices in Dublin, Limerick, Galway, and now Cork, bringing Niall onboard isn’t just a power move—it’s a statement that strategic growth demands fresh talent with a fight-to-win attitude. Curious how a rugby career can shape financial advisory prowess? Let’s dive in. LEARN MORE

NFP Ireland has appointed former Ireland and Munster rugby player Niall Scannell to its wealth and financial planning team in Cork.

Scannell’s appointment comes as NFP continues to expand its operations across Ireland, adding to its headcount and presence in key locations around the country.

With significant offices and teams already established in Dublin, Limerick and Galway, his appointment further strengthens NFP’s wealth and financial planning presence in Cork and forms part of the company’s wider plans for growth in Ireland.

Scannell joins NFP following a distinguished 13-year career in professional rugby with Munster.

A long-serving member of the province’s senior squad, he competed at the highest level of the professional game and represented Ireland on the international stage.

Alongside his professional rugby career, Scannell continued to develop his knowledge and qualifications in finance and business. He is a Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA), holds a Diploma in Management Accounting from CIMA and a BCL in Law from UCC.

In his new role as private client consultant, Scannell will work with individuals, families and business owners on retirement and pension planning, investment and wealth management, and longer-term financial planning.

He will work closely with clients to understand their financial position and priorities, develop tailored financial plans and provide ongoing advice as their circumstances and goals change.

Colm Power, managing director of NFP Ireland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Niall to our Wealth and Financial Planning team in Cork.

“He brings a strong understanding of financial planning and of NFP’s wealth and investment offering, backed by his QFA qualification and broader knowledge of finance and business.

“Niall also brings a very particular set of qualities from his career in professional rugby. Competing at the highest level for more than a decade demands discipline, attention to detail and the ability to work effectively as part of a team – qualities that translate particularly well to working with clients and developing long-term financial plans.

“He will be a strong addition to our team in Cork and we look forward to the contribution he will make as we continue to grow our Wealth and Financial Planning business”.

Commenting on his appointment, Scannell said: “After 13 years in professional rugby, this is a significant change in direction for me, but a very considered one.

“As a Qualified Financial Advisor, moving into private client financial planning gives me the opportunity to apply my financial knowledge in a new professional setting.

“One of the things that appealed to me about NFP is its approach to financial planning. There is a strong emphasis on understanding what each client wants to achieve and taking a long-term view of the decisions that will help them get there.

Niall Scannell — Colm Power, managing director at NFP.

“Professional rugby has shaped how I approach work and decision-making. Preparation, discipline and being accountable for the decisions you make were part of my working life for 13 years.

“I am looking forward to bringing that same approach to this role and to this next stage of my career with NFP”.

Photo: Niall Scannell. (Pic: supplied)