Steve Finan O’Connor: From Music Management to Web3 Innovation
The name Steve Finan O’Connor carries weight in the British entertainment and business world. Known for his eclectic career that spans from managing top music acts to building successful startups, O’Connor embodies versatility and innovation. He has worked with global stars such as Liam Payne, overseen creative projects with iconic record labels, co-founded quirky yet successful consumer ventures, and established himself in property development. Beyond his business achievements, he is also recognised as the husband of Olympic champion Denise Lewis, the father of a growing family, and the son of beloved comedian Tom O’Connor and Patricia O’Connor.
This article takes a closer look at his life, career, family, and ventures, piecing together a comprehensive profile of a man who continues to bridge industries and generations.
Early Life and Family Background
Parents and Upbringing
Steve Finan O’Connor was born in April 1964, making him around 61 years old today. His father, Tom O’Connor, was one of the UK’s best-loved comedians and television hosts, celebrated for his wit and charm. His mother, Patricia O’Connor, played an important role in supporting the family throughout Tom’s career. Growing up in a household filled with creativity and humour clearly influenced Steve’s later ventures into music and entertainment.
Influence of Family Heritage
Being the son of a household name brought both visibility and expectations. However, Steve charted his own course, stepping into the music industry in the early 1990s before diversifying into entrepreneurship and property development. His family heritage, rooted in performance and creativity, set the foundation for his success.
Marriage to Denise Lewis
A Power Couple
In 2006, Steve married Denise Lewis, the Olympic gold medallist and one of Britain’s most admired athletes. Their marriage represents the blending of sport and entertainment, with both partners excelling in fields that demand hard work, vision, and resilience.
Children and Family Life
Together, Steve and Denise have three sons: Ryan, Kane, and Troy. Denise also has a daughter, Lauryn, from a previous relationship, while Steve has a son, Joe, from an earlier partnership. Family life is clearly central to Steve, and both he and Denise have spoken about the importance of raising their children with strong values and balance.
Career in Music
MoWax Records and the Early Years
Steve’s career began with MOWAX LABELS LIMITED, a record label known for its influence on the UK music scene. As a co-owner since 1992, Steve was directly involved in shaping projects that defined an era of experimental and alternative music. MoWax quickly earned recognition for supporting innovative sounds, and O’Connor’s involvement highlights his instinct for spotting cultural shifts.
Managing Liam Payne
One of his more widely reported roles was managing Liam Payne, the former One Direction star. Taking on a client with global fame is no small task, and Steve’s management during parts of Payne’s solo career showcased his ability to navigate the pressures of mainstream success. Although Payne later moved through different management teams, O’Connor’s association with him remains a significant highlight of his portfolio.
Head of Music at Kin
From 2016 to 2021, Steve served as Head of Music at Kin, a London-based creative company. This position further reinforced his credibility in the industry, allowing him to bring experience and innovation into emerging projects.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Boomf.com – Adding Fun to Gifting
In 2013, Steve co-founded Boomf.com, a London startup famous for its quirky approach to gifting. The company became known for its “magical mallows” and creative personalised experiences. Boomf captured media attention for blending technology, personalisation, and a touch of humour — qualities that echoed Steve’s creative family background.
Fan3 – Web3 and Community Building
Since 2021, Steve has been a Founder Director of Fan3, a platform dedicated to connecting fans and communities through Web3 technologies. Fan3 focuses on engaging audiences in new ways, tapping into blockchain and decentralised models of interaction. His leadership at Fan3 demonstrates his ability to pivot into emerging industries and adapt to digital transformations.
Finan Wentworth Andersen – Property Development
Parallel to his entertainment ventures, Steve has been a partner in Finan Wentworth Andersen, a London-based property company since 2002. This side of his career highlights his entrepreneurial range, as he balances the fast-paced world of music and startups with the stability and long-term value of property investment.
Personal Traits and Professional Vision
Bridging Creativity and Business
What sets Steve Finan O’Connor apart is his ability to balance creativity with solid business acumen. From music management to consumer goods and Web3 ventures, he consistently identifies new opportunities and adapts to shifting cultural and technological landscapes.
A Family Man and Public Figure
Despite his professional commitments, Steve remains deeply connected to his family. His marriage to Denise Lewis and his role as a father are central aspects of his identity, providing stability amidst the volatility of the entertainment world.
Legacy and Influence
Contribution to Music and Entertainment
Through his work with MoWax, Kin, and as a manager to high-profile artists like Liam Payne, Steve has made a tangible contribution to the UK music industry. His ability to support and promote talent reflects a long-standing commitment to creative expression.
Expanding into New Industries
His ventures with Boomf.com and Fan3 illustrate his adaptability and forward-thinking nature. By embracing digital consumer trends and Web3 technology, Steve demonstrates how traditional entertainment professionals can thrive in modern innovation.
Conclusion
Steve Finan O’Connor is more than a music manager or entrepreneur; he is a multi-dimensional professional whose career spans over three decades. From co-owning MOWAX LABELS LIMITED and managing stars like Liam Payne, to co-founding Boomf.com and driving forward Web3 innovation with Fan3, his work consistently blends creativity with commerce.
On a personal level, his marriage to Denise Lewis and his role as a father highlight his commitment to family, while his roots as the son of Tom and Patricia O’Connor connect him to a legacy of British entertainment. Now in his early sixties, Steve continues to explore new frontiers, bridging the past and future of entertainment, property, and digital communities.
His journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and vision — qualities that will keep the name Steve Finan O’Connor relevant across industries for years to come.
