Duncan Cockburn

Duncan Cockburn is an accomplished entrepreneur and financial professional, best known as the Founder and CEO of OneBanks, a company focused on providing accessible banking solutions through a network of physical hubs. He has been at the helm of OneBanks since its inception in January 2020, with the goal of creating a bank-agnostic platform that facilitates everyday banking services, particularly in communities where traditional banking options have diminished due to branch closures.12

Background and Career

Cockburn's career includes significant experience in finance and accounting. He is a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) and previously worked at KPMG UK in audit roles from August 2014 to December 2019. His early career also included internships at various firms, including Pensato Capital LLP and Maven Capital Partners UK LLP.14

In addition to his role at OneBanks, he was involved with the Open Banking Strategic Working Group from September 2022 to January 2023, contributing to the strategic roadmap for open banking development.1

Vision for OneBanks

Cockburn's vision for OneBanks revolves around financial inclusion and accessibility. The concept of the OneBanks Hub aims to provide a physical location for banking services, allowing customers to conduct transactions regardless of their bank affiliation. This initiative addresses the needs of those who may not be digitally savvy or have access to traditional banking facilities, particularly in light of declining bank branches across the UK.24

His approach combines technology with personal service, creating kiosks where customers can perform cash transactions and receive assistance with online banking. This model not only enhances customer convenience but also seeks to bridge the gap between digital banking advancements and those who might be left behind.2

Recent Developments

As of February 2024, Cockburn announced his intention to step down as CEO of OneBanks, transitioning leadership to Javed Anjum. This change marks a new chapter for the company as it continues to expand its mission in the evolving landscape of banking technology.3

Duncan Cockburn's commitment to enhancing financial accessibility through innovative solutions positions him as a notable figure in the fintech industry, advocating for a blend of traditional banking values with modern technological advancements.