Bio

Tomás has worked in corporate structuring, wealth planning and fiduciary services, and has 20 years’ management and business development knowledge in the corporate and financial services industry.

Career highlights: ‘For several years I have led a team in charge of generating new revenue for the companies I represent and have increasingly achieved, or exceeded, the annual sales targets, as a team and individually. This has resulted in significant recurring yearly revenue for the company.

‘Also, developing new markets in the Americas, key acquisitions, identifying opportunities, performing due diligence, negotiating with investment bankers and executing the agreements.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The balance between transparency and privacy, and how to handle sensitive information of taxpayers without breaching a person’s right to privacy and security. Also, international private law conflicts, appropriate management of digital, and artificial intelligence resources and information.’

Bio

Ariel started his career at Deutsche Bank in Buenos Aires. Prior to joining Investors Trust, he was a portfolio manager at Biscayne Americas Advisers, an investment adviser in Miami specialising in emerging markets. At Investors Trust, he is responsible for global product distribution, the company’s product platform and the marketing department.

Career highlights: ‘Creation of unit-linked guaranteed products, both in the index and fixed-income markets, and the development of online tools to improve
end-customer experience as well as IFA productivity.

‘Established career plans for IFA distribution, providing clear production and professional standards.

‘Implementation of guidelines for asset selection in personalised portfolio bonds and designing unique open-ended savings plans to give maximum flexibility.’

Most significant industry change: ‘I would say RDR.
It set a business standard copied by many jurisdictions. Even though it is a step in the right direction, there are many aspects of the legislation to improve. It disenfranchised small investors, who are in more
need of professional advice.’

Bio

Michelle is chief marketing officer at Quilter and a member of its Executive Committee as well as on the board of Old Mutual International. She has developed and implemented the brand strategy and positioning
for the newly listed Quilter business. She has a wealth of subsidiary life company, trust company and fund management board experience across
a range of international financial centres.  

Career highlights: ‘There have been many, most recently working with the team at Quilter to separate from our South African parent, Old Mutual, and developing the new Quilter brand identity and positioning as part of the process.

‘During my time as commercial director for
Royal Skandia International, now Old Mutual International (OMI), I was fortunate to work with a diverse group of stakeholders to develop OMI’s business in the Middle East and, through that, got an insight into different cultures and customer needs.’

Greatest challenge: ‘People the world over do not know how to access good quality financial planning advice. Our industry has professionalised dramatically over the past few years but the consumer perception of it hasn’t. And there are often complexities best served with personalised advice. As regulatory burden increases, fewer people are benefiting from it.’

Bio

Steve has over 30 years’ experience in retail and institutional asset management platforms, life and pensions, both in the UK and internationally. He joined Novia Global in 2019 with a desire to lead the charge on clear and transparent online services and take the company forward to the next phase of its development.  

Biggest influence: ‘I have enormous respect for Bill Vasilieff. I very much admire his entrepreneurial skills, market vision and emphasis on proper client outcomes. I now find myself in the fortunate position of working alongside him to build up and further expand the Novia Global proposition.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘In the UK, RDR has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the financial services industry. In the international space, the most significant regulation in recent times is that surrounding Qrops. It will be a game-changer in terms of how international pensions are sold and managed.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The international market is moving towards a more transparent, lower-charged, technology-enabled solution. A big challenge will be helping support the advisory market with this significant transition.’ 

Bio

Born and raised in Belfast, Austin says he has been lucky enough to work and live in some wonderful places, including the US, Germany, Holland, England and Dubai.

Career highlights: ‘Forming Providence Life nearly 10 years ago was a fantastic opportunity and a huge challenge. It has proven to be a great learning experience and connected me with
a wonderful team of talented colleagues.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The EU Savings Tax Directive.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The disruption that massive technological advances will cause in the industry. Ironically, this is probably where the best
opportunities will be.’

Bio

Lillian became chair of the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority in July 2018, having been appointed to the organisation in 2015. She has been managing director and chairman of Isle of Man-based international life companies and has also held a variety of non-executive roles. She is a former UK president of the Chartered Insurance Institute and is now a member of its Professional Standards Committee. Lillian is also a trustee director of a UK benevolent fund and is chair of the Isle of Man Research Ethics Committee.

Greatest challenge: ‘Working on the merger of the two financial services regulators in the Isle of Man – the Insurance & Pensions Authority and Financial Supervision Commission – into the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority (IOMFSA). 

‘The merger was done in the face of some resistance and scepticism from parts of the industry and some of the staff. It is now recognised that our staff and board are taking the IOMFSA in the right direction and that it is working more effectively. It is a real positive for everyone.’ 

Bio

Scott started his career with AMP Group in New Zealand in 1989, joined Appleton in 1996 and was appointed managing director of Appleton International London in 2000. Scott achieved a five-star ranking from Standard & Poor’s for the management of several of the Appleton offshore funds. In 2002, he set up what is now MitonOptimal Guernsey and leads the development of the MitonOptimal Group.

Career highlights: ‘Learning the art of asset allocation in the early ’90s at AMP in New Zealand. Moving to Cape Town and then London with Appleton as head of international asset management. Learning how to build a business and the journey at MitonOptimal.’

Greatest challenge: ‘Achieving real returns
in a negative-yield macro environment.’

How do you relax?: ‘When not spending time with my family, sport is a passion, including golf, hot yoga, cycling, squash, tennis and (more watching than playing these days) rugby and cricket.’

Bio

Neil has worked in financial services for more than 20 years, 17 of those being with RL360 where he is head of technical services. He is Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (Step) qualified, sits on the board of Step Isle of Man and is also deputy chair of the Manx Insurance Association.

Most significant industry change: ‘Changes in legislation and regulation are now business as usual in most sectors, and you just have to get on with it. The Isle of Man Conduct of Business Rules is the most recent but other jurisdictions are introducing something similar, with more transparency being one of the key objectives.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Global regulatory change. Businesses need to constantly monitor what they are doing and, where necessary, introduce changes to their operational practices/products to ensure they have a place in a rapidly changing environment.’

Bio

Tim has more than 32 years’ experience in the investment management industry, the past 29 years spent at Quilter Cheviot. He is the managing director of Quilter Cheviot and head of international and the Jersey Office. He is also a member of the company’s Executive Forum and a trustee of the Quilter Foundation. He won Private Banker/Investment Manager of the Year for the Channel Islands and Isle of Man in the 2019 Citywealth IFC Awards. He was also named in the Citywealth Leaders list in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Biggest influence: ‘I was very lucky to start my career at Mercury Asset Management. It was a real pillar of the private client industry and articulated what relationship building was about: serving clients was at the centre of the business. It galvanised my conviction that I wanted to be an investment manager.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘We are still seeing the implications of Mifid II come through and it has certainly been one of the big changes recently. It gives us the opportunity to demonstrate our value and what we offer. We shouldn’t be afraid of talking about the price of advice. To paraphrase Warren Buffet, pricing is what you pay but value is what you get.’
 

Bio

Sean is managing director of Canada Life UK’s wealth management division and a member of the executive team. He recently became a chartered director with the Institute of Directors. His career began in 1993 as a trainee accountant at Eagle Star International. In 2005, he moved to Canada Life International as chief financial officer, joining its board as finance and operations director in 2007, then taking over as managing director in 2008. Until this year, Sean has been the executive director for Canada Life’s International businesses in Dublin and the Isle of Man. 

Biggest influence: ‘I have been very lucky to work for some great leaders during the past 26 years. Lee Tyrer, the chief operating officer of Eagle Star/Zurich, had a great influence on me in the early stages of my career and then became a great mentor when I moved to Canada Life.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR has had the biggest impact on the industry in a very positive way. The advice market is stronger as a result and it has undoubtedly led to far better customer outcomes.

It is encouraging to see other jurisdictions beginning to adopt similar models.’ 

Bio

Stephen moved into financial services in 1988, spending several years in direct sales with Sun Life of Canada and Allied Dunbar. In 1990, he joined the Lloyds Bank Group as a sales manager, and then ran the sales and marketing for the bank’s offshore arm, covering the Hong Kong and Dubai offices. From Lloyds, he joined Eagle Star in 1998 and ran sales for the Africa region. In 2004, he joined an insurance business
that was to become Unilife and later Unisure Group.

Career highlights: ‘The global exposure I had at Lloyds Bank Offshore and working with the amazing team at Eagle Star. A chance introduction to our current chairman Dr Graham Woolford, with whom my career journey has been both challenging and inspirational.’  

Biggest influence: ‘Three people: David Wigman, who was the Eagle Star sales director; the CEO and president of Colonial Life Alan Peacock was a mentor and a friend, who sadly passed away last year; and Dr Graham Woolford, who is an amazing actuary.’

Most significant industry change: ‘It has to be the positive impact of EU legislation.’ 

Bio

Rex has worked in the international financial services industry for 29 years and is an expert in the retirement sector. His pioneering work has set the standard for international pensions and he continues to innovate in asset protection, succession and retirement. He has sat on the boards of listed investments, fiduciary and custody businesses with leading global brands, and co-founded Overseas Trust & Pension, a specialist provider of retirement solutions for individuals and corporations.

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR legislation has arguably had the biggest impact on the industry. Many regulators have adopted the banning of commissions, minimum qualification, CPD and fee-disclosure requirements, resulting in an overhaul of the product supply chain and operating models for advisers.’

Greatest challenge: ‘Providing quality financial planning advice to individuals with lower levels of funds for investment is a challenge and a hangover from RDR-style legislation, which has taken such advice out of the reach of many.’

Bio

Giorgio joined the Generali Group in 1980. In 1993, he was appointed chief underwriter (non-life) with responsibilities for the UK, Dubai and Singapore offices. He left the group in 2002 to join PWC as a director in corporate finance/business recovery. He then rejoined Generali Group in 2005 as managing director for Europ Assistance UK. In 2010, he rejoined the UK branch as vice president of life and healthcare and has been CEO of Utmost Worldwide since 2012.

Career highlights: ‘Managing the multiple transformations of Generali over the past seven years. In June 2012, I was asked to lead the group business in Guernsey. This consisted of Generali International, Worldwide and Portfolio Management. In February 2019, Generali completed the sale of Generali Worldwide to Utmost Group and was renamed Utmost Worldwide.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Modernisation of systems and reduction of costs. The insurance industry costs remain too high.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Solvency II, because of its far-reaching impact on capital requirements and risk approach.’ 

Bio

Geraint has been in the industry for 35 years, forging his career in Australia. Returning to the UK in 1991, he identified a gap in the market and pioneered cross-border solutions for individuals connected to the
UK wherever they are in the world. Geraint has worked with HM Revenue & Customs to develop solutions such as Qrops to facilitate overseas pension transfers.

Career highlights: ‘Pioneering cross-border solutions for individuals as they move around the world. Immersing myself in the UK, Australia and global pensions system enabled me to develop solutions using HMRC’s tax rules relating to Qrops and Qnups.  Working with my technical team has ensured we remain key figures within the global IFA network, educating on the importance of incorporating tailored cross-border recommendations, often unknown to many advisers.’ 

How do you relax?: ‘What else would a Welshman do? Rugby is in the blood, and I sing and play golf when I can. Also, every year I take a couple of weeks to go to a hidden-away town in southern Crete – nothing but peace in Paleochora.’

Bio

Sheila is responsible for facilitating growth by expanding the breadth of services Equiom offers and driving the continued success of Equiom’s acquisition strategy. She also manages several key external relationships with regulators and prospective M&A targets, and longstanding client relationships. Joining in 1990. Sheila held several senior positions in Equiom before becoming managing director and the global CEO. She has considerable experience as both a trustee and director on complex trust structures and multinational companies.

Career highlights: ‘Entering the Asia market in 2015 when we acquired a fiduciary services provider in Hong Kong marked the beginning of our journey to becoming a truly global business.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Tax transparency measures such as the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act and Common Reporting Standard. They have had a huge impact on the way we do business and influenced our decision to diversify our services and expand our global footprint. By establishing in Asia, the Middle East and the Americas we have been able to offer a more comprehensive service to our clients worldwide and grow our business in new sectors outside of the trust and corporate services arena.’

Bio

David has spent almost three decades working with advisers, private banks, institutional brokers and their clients across four continents. He joined Royal Skandia, now Quilter, in 1999, working in a range of technical sales roles in the UK and overseas. He simplifies and communicates cross-border traps and opportunities around personal wealth, including property, investments, pensions and trusts.

Career highlights: ‘Joining the international arm of the business 20 years ago – when it was in its infancy in the UK – turned out to be good fortune. It gave me a rare opportunity to fashion certain aspects of a business that is now one of the largest and most successful offshore life and investment concerns.’

Biggest influence: ‘Nobel Prize-winning economist Harry Markowitz. His thesis on diversification led to modern portfolio theory, the principles of which are embraced by all active managers today. Without him, balancing the fundamentals of risk and reward in understanding the efficient frontier would be far
more challenging.’

Greatest challenge: ‘First, the lack of financial education in the curriculum, the savings gap and the need to encourage people to take financial responsibility early in life. Second, dealing with increased legislative complexity.’

Bio

Sheila has worked in financial services for more than 35 years. She arrived in Hong Kong in 2006 and within two years was named Hong Kong’s Best Financial Planner of the Year by the Institute of Financial Planners. She believes being a mature female helped, particularly in Hong Kong where the typical adviser was male, young and constantly on the move. 

Most significant industry change: ‘When I arrived in Hong Kong in 2006 it wasn’t quite the world-class financial centre I was expecting. Commission-driven sales of insurance-based products were the basis of most advisory businesses and, not surprisingly, this gave the industry a dubious reputation. For me, commission/fee disclosure has had the greatest impact, both in the UK and latterly in Hong Kong.’

How do you relax?: ‘When I arrived in Hong Kong, I started playing netball again. It’s great to be involved in such a fantastic team sport and it keeps me active. Additionally, I am the chair of the Women in Business committee for the British Chamber and am actively involved in running events to raise awareness of the importance of financial planning for women and to highlight their role in the financial sector.’

Bio

Chris had enjoyed a 30-year career working in life, pensions and investments. He counts qualifying as a Chartered Financial Planner in the inaugural batch in 2005 and running the Middle East businesses for Standard Life International and Friends Provident International as career highlights. Chris is currently in the UK but is working on a couple of projects that will see him back in the Middle East in the near future.

Biggest influence: ‘My wife Julie. She has encouraged me, supported me and given me the confidence to do some of the tough jobs I have done.’

Most significant industry change: ‘From a UK standpoint, there’s no doubt that RDR has been transformational and has brought true professionalism to the advisory market. In the Middle East, it would be the long-awaited C12 Regulations from the UAE-IA.’

How do you relax?: ‘I like to spend time with my family and friends, keep fit and box. I am also in the process of completing a PhD so there’s always reading and writing to be done.’

Bio

Michael set up the Woodbrook Group six years ago and has led the financial advisory company through a period of ambitious and sustained international expansion. Since its inception, the company now has a truly global reach, with offices across Europe and the UAE. It provides a comprehensive suite of services, including investment and wealth planning, Qrops, Sipps, trust and trustee services, as well as accounting, audit and legal services, company formation, administration, taxation
and cross-border structuring. 

Career highlights: ‘My greatest satisfaction has been to steer Woodbrook’s expansion at a time of great change in the financial services sector, driving the group to full regulation in several jurisdictions under legislations such as Mifid II, IDD and Fiduciary AML.’

Biggest influence: ‘My father Andy. When I was starting out he gave me this piece of advice: “If you are going to do a job, do it once and do it right.”
My father always inspired me to do things better and he was never afraid to take on new challenges. He worked at a leather merchant and papermill before moving into shipping transport and setting up his
own logistics company 12 years before he retired.’

Bio

Brendan is responsible for the development and expansion of Quilter International’s core markets in Latin America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hong Kong and Singapore. He joined the company in 1991 and
has more than 34 years’ experience in international and offshore financial services. 

Career highlights: ‘Developing products that lead
the industry and meet customers’ needs has always been my focus. In 2016, we noticed a change in customer habits as the older regular premium products began to fall out of favour. Many people’s incomes have become less predictable and their savings habits have changed in turn, so they don’t necessarily want to be tied to a rigid product. 

‘In response, we made the decision to discontinue our contractual products in favour of those that allow customers to contribute when it is convenient and cost-effective for them to do so.’ 

Bio

Sarah has 32 years’ experience in life, pensions and the platform industry.
She started out in 1987 in the UK and has remained with the same group for her entire career. In 1996, she focused on the international business and was then involved in the IFGL strategy of acquisitions and growth. In 2016, IFGL purchased Ardan International and Sarah became part of the management team. In 2018, she was offered the role of CEO at Ardan Wealth Management platform. 

Greatest influence: ‘There are three people who have influenced me the most. Early on in my career, I worked for Stephen Shone. He brought determination and consistency to his role, which guided the business through good and bad times. His lessons in how to conduct yourself and your department have always stayed with me. 

‘In the past 10 years, the finance and commercial director at RL360 Mike Crellin has pushed me to better understand and consider what’s going on around me and always question why. 

‘Last but not least is David Kneeshaw. His vision has driven the IFGL group through many changes, not least the management buyout.’ 

Bio

Craig is the founder and CEO of Carrick Wealth, a financial services and wealth management firm with deep roots in Africa. He is distinguished by his ability to identify, leverage and develop talent. His enthusiasm and belief in people inspires them to become more valuable contributors to the group. 

Career highlights: ‘The development of a respected, regulated, customer-centric and industry regarded wealth management firm in Africa with a strong bias towards corporate philanthropy. This has led to the firm winning a string of awards.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘To empower clients to become part of the decision-making process will be the key going forward. Fintech is very real and if we do not embrace better relationships with our customers,
we will lose them to technology.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Continuous professional development. Gone are the days when advisers could get by with little or no qualifications. We must become smarter for our clients.’ 

Bio

David co-founded Nucleus in 2006. Previously, he was director of Abacus Financial Marketing. He was a trainee actuary with Life Association of Scotland prior to working at Ivory & Sime. He has also been
a member of HM Treasury Fintech Envoy for Scotland since December 2016 and is the current chairman of FinTech Scotland. 

Biggest influence: ‘I’ve been fortunate to learn from John Allison, Paul Bradshaw and Mike Wilson. More widely, Seth Godin and Hugh McLeod have guided me in trying to do something worthwhile in the right way. I’d also include my high-school computer science teacher. We were enormously lucky to be in the first ever class in Scotland and to have been taught by a guy who’d worked at Apple.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘The easy answer is probably RDR but I suspect Mifid II will come to be seen as the pivotal regulation of my career. There are too many market participants who have been able to hide for too long.’ 

Bio

Andy has responsibility for the continued expansion of Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management’s Ireland-domiciled Ucits fund range. He is a director of Canaccord Genuity Investment Funds, an Irish Ucits umbrella fund; a director of Canaccord Genuity Management Company; and a member of the Canaccord Genuity Wealth (International) executive committee. He joined CGWM in 2002 and, with more than 35 years in the industry, is an experienced professional and speaker at industry events.  

Career highlights: ‘My “Captain Class” leadership style has helped develop close-knit teams, reinforcing the belief that a positive culture leads to a higher
level of achievement, fulfilment and success for all team members.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘The introduction of the snappily named Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (Ucits) rules in 1985 have become the global standard for retail investors. The establishment of a high level of investor protection, transparency, regulation and oversight affords investors easy access to a professionally managed and diversified basket of financial instruments at affordable costs.’ 

Bio

Wouter has more than 22 years’ industry experience. His accolades include the 2015/16 FPI Financial Planner of the Year award and the IA Best Adviser Practice for South Africa award in 2016 and 2018.  

Career highlights: ‘Winning the FPI Financial Planner of the Year award and co-authoring The Ultimate Guide to Retirement in South Africa with the now semi-retired multiple award-winning editor and industry legend Bruce Cameron. Serving my fellow professionals as a non-executive director of the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa and chairman of the CPD company.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘The first was the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act but I think the “unknown known” set of 55 inter-related regulatory proposals to be implemented through a multi-year regulatory reform process will have the biggest impact on the industry.’ 

Bio

Mike joined the insurance industry more than 35 years ago, working for several UK insurance companies before moving to the Isle of Man in 1995. In 1999, he joined Sun Life International, which became Axa and ultimately Utmost Wealth Solutions. From August 2015, he led the disposal activity of Axa Isle of Man, culminating in the successful acquisition by LCCG in 2016 and the creation of Utmost Wealth Solutions. He is a fellow of the Institute of Directors and lives on the Isle of Man.

Biggest influence: ‘If I had to single out one person it would be Michael Rogers, my boss while on secondment to Axa UK. Michael reinforced in me a number of things: put the customer at the heart of decision-making, making tough decisions doesn’t mean not treating people fairly and, above all, don’t let work stop you having a really good time.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘As an industry we constantly deal with change. Balancing regulation with good customer outcomes and commercial success is a battle. We have to ensure we have the scale, strength and innovation to survive the inevitable pressure on margins and demand for flexibility and transparency from our customers. These can be balanced but we should be better at proactively working with global regulators rather than reacting to regulation.’ 

Bio

Paul is managing partner of MBMG Group, a member of the GGI Group since its establishment in 1995, and director of MBMG Investment Advisory, a fee-based adviser to over $1bn of assets for institutional, family offices, corporate and private clients.

Career highlights: ‘Inclusion in such bodies as Thailand Tatler’s list of 300 most influential expatriates, CNBC’s Summit, Citywire’s DB X-Trackers’ EM Managers, Sasin Business School’s Bangkok King Of Thailand Business Competition as a senior judge and above all the IA 100.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Conflict and self-interest preventing the widespread adoption of fee-only across all aspects of the investment profession.’

How do you relax?: ‘Reading, cycling, music and spending time with my friends, family and wife and the amazing team at MBMG.’

Bio

Richard began his career at HM Revenue & Customs before moving to Baker Tilly. He later became a full equity tax partner within Mazars UK, where he headed the tax practice for the north of England. After moving to Guernsey, in 2012 he established the pension company that now trades as Trireme Pension Services Guernsey. Malta was added to the Trireme family a year later. Richard is the key driver behind the growth of the Trireme brand and remains as the only founder director of both companies. 

Career highlights: ‘Passing my inspector of taxes training, making full equity partner at Mazars and establishing the Trireme business, which I went on to help grow. I must also mention the people I work with and the large and supportive network of fellow professionals. I would be nothing without any of those people.’

How do you relax?: ‘I love nothing more than de-stressing on holiday at various places around the world, Barbados in particular. I also enjoy watching sport, especially horse racing and football. I’m a Grimsby Town fan though, which often adds to my stress levels! I also like walking with my two dogs.’

Bio

Mark is the founder and group chairman of Momentum Pensions, which he established with a clear vision of evolving the international pensions sector by delivering new standards of service, integrity and transparency. To realise this vision, he was able to draw upon substantial experience in financial services, having previously served as a board director for two international banks on the Isle of Man, with responsibilities covering investment, banking and fund administration. Mark has also successfully developed a number of companies in the property, retail and financial services sectors.

Career highlights: ‘Setting up my own group of companies has always been my highlight and the motivation I get from this still drives me today as we continue to build a leading business in the sector.’

Most significant industry change: ‘There were significant changes in the Qrops industry in 2012 but in the past 12 months there have been big regulatory changes across all jurisdictions, requiring detailed changes from all trustees.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The continued pace of regulatory change requires investment in people, systems and process. This will no doubt lead to an increase in responsibilities of the various parties from professional advisers to trustees, ensuring there is a clear focus on consumer outcomes across the chain.’ 

Bio

Rachael is a technical expert and industry commentator. She is a chartered financial planner and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (Step) who holds the Step advanced certificate in will preparation. She is the deputy chair of the Manx Insurance Association technical & policy committee, and a member of the ABI life assurance product and operational tax committee. 

Most significant industry change: ‘There have been numerous changes over the years that dramatically changed our industry. In the first part of my career in the financial services industry there were many legislative “rabbit-out-of-hat” moments. An example being the 2006 changes to the taxation of interest in possession trusts, which transformed the taxation of the trusts offered by financial services.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘There will be ongoing regulatory change throughout the world. It is likely we will see an overhaul on UK inheritance tax, and gaps in UK social care and intergenerational wealth must also be addressed. A big challenge will be the harnessing of technological advancements and product innovation to meet future customer needs.’ 

Bio

Brendan provides taxation and technical support for Friends Provident International’s high net-worth and global expat advisers and customers. He has been in the industry for 25 years and is an associate of the CII’s Personal Finance Society, a chartered financial planner and an associate of both the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators and the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners. He is also chairman of the tax committee for Ailo. 

Career highlights: ‘Development of an award-winning inheritance tax and estate planning product that has been copied by peers. I have also played a part over the years in improving advisers’ knowledge and value to their customers through training, seminars and CPD delivery. I also helped the first portfolio bond become licensed in Singapore.

‘I spotted opportunities resulting from legislation changes in key expat markets and developed value propositions arising from these.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘From a tax and regulatory perspective, I think the world is becoming more insular. This is the biggest challenge for companies operating cross-border.’ 

How do you relax? ‘I keep fit by running and mountain biking. I also enjoy travel and spending time with family.’ 

Bio

Gary is a seasoned leader in the financial services and wealth management sector, with in-depth operational and strategic experience at chief executive and board director level in Asia and Australia. He is well versed in spearheading strategic change in large and small organisations, business start-ups and business development. Gary is well known for his passion in driving high standards of professionalism, client-centricity and adoption of high standards of compliance and governance. 

Career highlights: ‘Developing the professionalisation of the advisory process in the wealth management
and insurance sector.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Rather than a single item of regulation, it is the combination of regulatory changes designed to give clients greater protection and understanding of the advice they receive, combined with the increase of education, competency, fitness and proprietary requirements of the individual providing the advice.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘To embrace evolving technology to further enhance the client experience, helping them access more relevant information in a timely manner wherever they may be.’

How do you relax? ‘A good movie with nice wine and food.’

Bio

A former IFA, Garry set up the IFA Association in 1989, which represented over 60% of UK IFA practices and was instrumental in the reform of Fimbra and the creation of the PIA. In 2015, he published The Heath Report to examine the impact of RDR on consumers and the industry. Following publication, he formed Libertatem, which has experienced rapid growth as the adviser community has come under scrutiny and financial pressure from the regulators. 

Garry also set up Nfifatec, the UK’s first large-scale CPD programme, and has been awarded Outstanding Contribution to the Financial Services Industry by Money Marketing eight times.

Greatest challenge: ‘To maintain a presence in the mass market to ensure advice is available to all those who need it. Large numbers of trainees must be attracted into the sector to replace those advisers who will shortly be retiring.’ 

Bio

Barry is the CEO of Paradigm Norton, a Bristol-based financial planning business often cited as one of the leaders in the UK profession. The 67-strong team serves more than 1,200 families and has offices in Bristol, London and Torquay. Paradigm Norton was formed in 2001 and has won over 25 professional awards. Barry is currently a board member, having served as chair in 2018 of the US-based Financial Planning Standards Board. He became a CFP professional in 2003.

Biggest influence: ‘David Norton, who sadly passed away in 2005, was a huge inspiration to me in building a genuine client-centric business. I also enjoyed working closely with Nick Cann, former CEO of the Institute of Financial Planning. He introduced me to the role that professional bodies can play in building the profession.’

Most significant industry change: ‘I am old enough to recall the introduction of the 1986 Financial Services Act, which was the start of the process of the industry becoming a profession. The general public will only recognise the global profession of financial planning when they start to have trust in the advice they are being given.’

Bio

Michelle is known for her endless enthusiasm and her relentless pursuit to change the world. She believes everyone has the potential to be extraordinary. She is a speaker, author, coach and innovator. 

Biggest influence: ‘My dad. His work ethic, dedication and commitment to getting the job done is incredible. Plus my clients.’

Greatest challenge: ‘Shifting a global industry of financial advisers/planners into business owners. When they start to think and behave as business owners many of the challenges will just disappear.’

How do you relax? ‘My daughter Ruby, 8, is a lot of fun and reminds me of the little girl I used to be before I decided to take on financial services and change the world.’ 

Bio

Peter’s extensive experience includes a variety of senior roles at Zurich Topas Life Indonesia, Zurich Global Life Singapore, Swiss Reinsurance Company, Allianz SE Asia Pacific and Swiss Life. 

Most significant industry change: ‘Regulation is intensifying and this will only continue, so we all need to find business models that survive. A tighter solvency regime, greater demands on distribution transparency and elevated data protection rules can be overcome partly with the aid of a greater focus on the customer. 

‘We must offer what the customer demands, namely better, more transparent, fit-for-purpose solutions. We must also take into consideration the sustainability of our business in a changing world. This is the new imperative that goes beyond regulations.’

Greatest challenge: ‘We must be at the forefront of the customer revolution, be close to our customers and understand and act fast in addressing their needs. Distribution is also evolving and we are being challenged by customers to invest in digitalisation and accelerate innovation.’ 

Bio

As a graduate of King’s College London, Sam was later commissioned into the Household Cavalry. He founded AES International to specialise in high-risk areas of the world and based its structure and values on the military. 

Career highlights: ‘Helping accelerate the emergence of a financial planning profession around the world. This means continually advocating for the transparent disclosure or abolition of commission, promoting the benefits of fee-based advice, pushing for higher standards of professional qualifications and ensuring genuinely independent, client-centric advice. It also involves highlighting the traditional industry practices that run contrary to accepted best-practice.

‘By far the greatest reward has been seeing advisers transition their practices as well as meeting clients whose lives have been hugely impacted by the ‘new model’ planning the firm has delivered.’ 

Biggest influence: ‘Robin Powell – journalist, financial educator and advocate of good advice. He works tirelessly to get fair returns for all investors and is a great force for good in the international financial marketplace.’ 

Bio

With 30 years of experience in the industry, Darren focuses on retirement, taxation and trust planning, specialising in solutions for clients with a UK connection. Inheritance tax and succession planning for UK-domiciled and non-domiciled individuals, tax planning for returning UK expats, as well as estate planning through the generations, are areas of expertise. He supports financial advisers and clients globally, regularly speaking at seminars and industry events.

Career highlights: ‘Having dedicated a large part of my career to the technical training and development of others, I feel I have contributed to raising the standard of many advisers within the industry. I naturally moved towards a training role as I feel I communicate complex topics in a clear and understandable way. 

‘A further highlight came while working at Old Mutual, in reaction to the introduction of Qrops legislation in 2004. I helped commoditise and deliver to market a cost-effective retail Qrops offering, which, with subsequent changes in UK pension rules, now provides greater retirement planning opportunities for clients.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘The drive for increased professionalism internationally. We must be an industry of highly qualified, truly holistic financial planners with the best interests of consumers at the centre of everything we do. Maintaining profitability is vital, yet the remuneration model must adapt to reflect this goal.’ 

Bio

Neil’s career in financial services began at the now defunct National Mutual Life when it relocated from London to Hitchin. He later moved to Albany Life as part of the training function and spent 10 years working in the advice sector, having already gained the appropriate qualifications. He gradually became more involved in offshore and estate planning, running seminars on these topics and working with other advisers on complex cases. When Albany became Canada Life, Neil developed a technical role within the marketing team. 

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR has had an impact on markets all around the world as regulators look to adopt some or all of the elements in their own markets.

‘When the US introduced Fatca, tax authorities around the world cringed but they soon leapt on the bandwagon. The sharing of information between jurisdictions has and will continue to have a massive effect. 

‘Tax authorities always have a thing for anything that mentions the word ‘offshore’ as for some reason it has become linked to tax evasion, which is as wrong as tax evasion itself. Many areas of trade are cross-border, so why shouldn’t someone be able to use financial products cross-border?’

Bio

A 25-year veteran of the Zurich Insurance Group, Walter has held several senior roles over the years, including head of sales for the international business, head of market management in the Asia-Pacific region and regional manager Latin America. 

Career highlights: ‘The opportunity to work in different countries with different people and providing solutions to meet their needs. I have greatly enjoyed working in every continent and I believe this has enhanced my understanding of customer needs and behaviours.’

Biggest influence: ‘I have been lucky to work with some extremely strong leaders who have supported me and given me opportunities to try something new.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘There are many, depending on the jurisdiction, but if I had to pick one that fundamentally changed the industry it would be RDR in the UK.’  

How do you relax? ‘By spending time with my family and travelling. I also enjoy golf but need a lot more practice to be good at it.’

Bio

Being exasperated by the choices on offer for expats in the region, Trevor and his co-founders decided to create the kind of financial services company they would seek out for themselves. As a result, Infinity was born. Its simple philosophy is to instil into all its advisers to put the client first, focusing on holistic financial planning over the long term. The main driving force at Infinity is a fundamental belief that good financial planning makes people’s lives better.

Career highlights: ‘Seeing Infinity grow over the past 15 years has undoubtedly been my career highlight. From the very beginning of our journey where my co-founders and I were sitting around a coffee table planning our business, to the early days of trying to get our company off the ground with just three staff members, we’ve now nurtured Infinity into an independent brand with its own identity and equity.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘A transition from commission-based to passive/fee-based planning, delivering better outcomes for clients, advisers and the business. Giving the business a firmer footing and more robust client offering is protecting it for the future. Companies that don’t adapt will find it difficult to weather the storm.’

Bio

Harris fell into recruitment after university and teacher training, setting up Keillar Resourcing in 1996. He has been involved in international recruitment from 1998 and recruited into almost
all jurisdictions bar the US. MBA qualified, he is also a fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and the Institute of Recruitment Professionals.

Greatest challenge: ‘The relentless squeeze on costs coming from treating customers fairly in the UK and elsewhere, alongside much greater client awareness of costs means there is now very little fat left. Buffett’s praise for Vanguard etc means actively managed and advised funds must be demonstrably much, much better.’ 

Bio

Former bank manager turned IFA, Sean has been the chairman of Financial Partners, an IFA spanning seven Middle East and Asian countries. As chairman of Financial Partners, he was also responsible for the valuation and practice management of international IFAs. He can be considered one of the more experienced participants in the offshore space, as CEO of Mondial (Dubai).

Career highlights: ‘Being named Middle East Financial Adviser of the Year three times in the late ’80s as a financial adviser; hosting a radio show on financial services; and a 10-year stretch writing in the Gulf News.’

Most significant industry change: ‘In the UAE, the move from the UAE Central Bank to the Securities and Commodities Authority has impacted on what IFAs can and can’t do.’ 

How do you relax?: ‘Gym training and trying to stay less fat than nutrition intake deserves. I’m also a keen follower of soccer, rugby and cricket.’ 

Bio

Peter has more than 30 years’ experience in international financial services, spanning life assurance, hedge funds and the regulatory sector. Prior to joining Quilter International (formerly known as Old Mutual International), he was a board member of the Financial Services Authority in the Isle of Man and is currently chair of the Manx Insurance Association. 

Career highlights: ‘I enjoyed being at the forefront of product innovation in the late ’80s and early ’90s; shaping distribution in the Middle East; helping to create a domestic life assurance business in Latin America; supporting the adviser market in Asia in the mid-90s; building out distribution in the hedge fund sector; working with the regulator to help shape the regulatory framework for an industry I care passionately about; and more recently leading a great team within the market-leading business that is Quilter International.’

Greatest challenge: ‘International life companies need to transform from old-fashioned, self-serving product manufacturers to modern customer and adviser-centric, cost-effective platforms. Similarly, international advisers need to transform from a transactional business model. Our respective failure to transform will leave the sector vulnerable to the threat of new entrants in the form of fintech and other agile participants.’

Bio

Tarun joined Nexus in January 2007 as head of finance, becoming deputy CEO in early 2010. In June 2013, he became CEO of the group with responsibility for both the strategic and day-to-day management of the business. He has significant experience in financial services, with 25 years in asset management and investment banking. He joined Merrill Lynch in 1990 and subsequently worked at Morgan Stanley, Lazard Asset Management, Wellington Management and Copper Arch Capital. 

Biggest influence: ‘My experience in investment banking and money management on Wall Street has allowed me to drive greater financial discipline across our business. In turn, this has allowed the business to allocate more funds to technology, training and development programmes without compromising performance, back office or marketing activities.’

Bio

David worked in the advertising industry in London before joining Swiss Life UK as marketing director in 1992. After setting up Swiss Life’s UK personal insurance division, he joined Royal London as group business development director in 2002, becoming chief executive of the international division in 2004. The company became known as RL360 following the management buyout in November 2013. 

Career highlights: ‘Growing RL360 and leading the management buyout.’

Biggest influence: ‘Many previous bosses, in particular Chris Ide, chairman of Swiss Life Europe.’

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR in the UK.’

How do you relax?: ‘Golf, skiing, reading, shooting, walking the dogs, dinghy sailing and mowing the lawn.’ 

Bio

Pat joined Irish Funds as chief executive in April 2012. He is a board member of the European Fund and Asset Management Association and adviser to the Asset Management Association of China’s International Partners Committee. He has 25 years’ experience. 

Career highlights: ‘Leading the first ever Asset Governance Guidance for Irish Pension Funds in 2003. Appointed, relatively young, to the board of Bank of Ireland Asset Management, and moving my family to Australia in 2005. Invited to become an adviser to the Amac IPC has been validation of the way we are recognised globally.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The Ucits directives have had a hugely positive ongoing impact. Updating legislation on Investment Limited Partnerships in Ireland, which will provide a strong EU common law fund structure for private equity.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Meeting the needs of savers and investors in an environment that is more challenged than ever before while continually earning and building trust.’ 

Bio

Michael has been in the industry for 30 years. He joined Standard Life straight out of school as a trainee actuary and over 18 years worked in Ireland, the UK and Germany. In 2010, he joined Prudential International as managing director. During the past nine years, Michael has seen the company’s offshore business go from strength to strength, including the expansion into Poland. 

Career highlights: ‘I am a passionate believer in the ability of with-profits to deliver outstanding customer outcomes. I have been delighted by the part I have been able to play in the success of PruFund, bringing the benefits of with-profits to a new, wider audience.’ 

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR has had a profound impact on the UK market. Most of that impact has been for the better but, as with any change of that scale, there have been unintended consequences, such as the advice gap.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Low interest rates represent a major challenge for the industry in meeting the needs of cautious investors, particularly at older ages.’ 

How do you relax?: ‘Having grown up on a farm I retain a keen interest in all things agricultural. I like nothing better than to relax of an evening reading my copy of the Farmers Journal.’

Bio

John has over 25 years’ experience in financial services, having started his career in asset finance before moving over to the life and investment industry. He has managed a number of sales teams for life investment and asset management firms, and has worked closely with advisers operating across the UK, Europe, Brazil, the Middle East, Far East and South Africa. John joined Square Mile in January 2019 to enhance the investment consulting services to both wholesale
and intermediary clients. 

Career highlights: ‘I have been fortunate enough to travel around the world sharing knowledge and insights gleaned by working with some of the brightest minds in the fund management industry.
As I am a salesman at heart, celebrating client wins with my colleagues and observing the positive effect of the work we have done within clients’ businesses
is at the top of my list of highlights.’

Greatest challenge: ‘If we do not encourage more young talent to join our profession, we will exacerbate the already widening advice gap as financial professionals with decades of experience retire or sell their businesses. Technology can help to an extent but this gap is unlikely to be filled entirely by robots.’

Bio

Roman has more than 25 years’ experience in the financial/securities industry. Since 1997, he has held senior executive positions with Atlantic Fund Services (formerly Forum Financial Group), and with Citigroup’s international fund services operations. Following Citigroup’s acquisition of Forum in 2003, Roman was managing director and global head of Citigroup’s Transfer Agency. He became the CEO of Moventum in January 2015, following the acquisition of Moventum in Luxembourg by Atlantic Fund Services.

Biggest influence: ‘My business partner.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Mifid II.’ 

Bio

Cornelius launched his financial services career in London in 1987. Allied Dunbar was his training ground before a permanent move to the Middle East in 1992. The Central Bank of the UAE issued him one of the first financial consultation licences in 1997, which Acuma Wealth Management and sister company AIB used to great effect. Following the sale of these companies,
Abacus was born.

Biggest influence: ‘Ed Lighthowler was one of the most successful branch managers within Allied Dunbar in the ’90s. His calm logical approach to delivering what the client wanted set me on a path to ask what a client wants rather than telling a client what they need. You could say it was a lightbulb moment with regards to doing quality business.’

How do you relax?: ‘I passed my Private Pilot Licence in 2013 and there is no greater pleasure than buzzing along the Jurassic Coast on a sunny day. Hill walking with a regular bunch of mates is great for team building and gives a great feeling of achievement. Last year we peaked Mount Chirripó in Costa Rica but Kilimanjaro takes some beating. Golf is a fool’s passion that I regularly disappoint in, but spending time with family tops everything.’

Bio

Chung Chun is chairman and CEO of iFast Corporation and is co-founder of the company. From 1991 to 1998, he was an investment analyst with two securities companies in Singapore and rose to become the head of research at ING Barings Securities. He co-founded Fundsupermart.com in 2000. 

Greatest challenge: ‘The greatest challenge the financial advisory sector faces in the next five years is changing business models to meet technological changes. Technological advances and the power of the internet empower consumers and advisers, and bring about unprecedented levels of transparency into the business. Advisers can either fade out of the industry if they are unable or unwilling to adapt or flourish with newfound opportunities through the
right business models.’

How do you relax?: ‘I keep myself healthy by taking part in yearly long-distance events. I’ve done marathons (six so far), half marathons, mountain climbing and 100km walks for Oxfam.’

Bio

From 1991 to 1999, Michael worked for Mondial Expatriate Services in Europe as a consultant to the regional director. In 1999, he moved to the European Business Network Luxembourg as director of the international division before founding The Spectrum IFA Group in 2003. He is a member of the board of the Fédération Européenne des Conseils et Intermédiaires Financiers and the European Pensions Institute.

Career highlights: ‘Creating and building a successful pan-European IFA founder member of the Federation of European Independent Financial Advisers.’

Biggest influence: ‘John Smithers, former chairman of Mondial.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Insurance Mediation Directive (now Insurance Distribution Directive).’

How do you relax?: ‘Golf, travel, cricket and football.’

Bio

Sarah has been in the profession for over 15 years and has a breadth of experience, having worked in different types of financial service businesses and lived in the Middle East for a number of years. She is one of the highest-qualified female financial planners in the UK and offshore advisory market and is recognised as an international financial planning specialist. Prior to joining Succession Wealth, she was partner at Mazars from June 2017.

Career highlights: ‘Proudest moment to date was being elected to The Personal Finance Society board in 2016, as it enables me to further share my passion for the profession, drive greater female representation in senior roles and have an influence on continuing to shape the wonderful work we all do as professionals for our clients.  

‘I am motivated in all the work I do for the profession, to raise the standards we all operate to and raise the profile of financial services by delivering the best client experience.’

Most significant industry change: ‘In the UK market, I believe RDR has had a significant impact, it has played a huge role in driving transparency of the cost of advice and what clients are paying for. This has raised standards and driven professionalism of those that operate in the space.’

Bio

Bryan worked in the cross-border financial services sector for more than 25 years, initially as marketing director for RBS International in Jersey before joining Scottish Provident International in the Isle of Man. In 2001, he founded Acuity Consultants, and spent the following 17 years developing it into a leading marketing and sales consultancy firm specialising in cross-border marketing
and distribution.

Biggest influence: ‘My greatest influence was the experience I gained at the start of my career working in fast moving consumer goods sales and marketing. The disciplines you learn working on great consumer brands such as Lucozade, Ribena, Marmite and Hellmann’s, supported by superb training and mentoring, stick with you forever.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The industry’s greatest
challenge hasn’t changed for years – finding a way to put the customer’s needs and interests first while being able to run a profitable adviser or product provider business.’

Bio

After several years in the private sector working in the Middle East, Europe and London, William joined the UK Cabinet Office where he worked to roll back excessive regulation. He then served with the Financial Services Authority during the 2008 crisis, before moving to run risk at the Central Bank of Ireland during the euro area crash.

Career highlights: ‘The two financial crashes had their moments but I’m hoping not to repeat them any time soon. Writing Regulation – Less is More for the prime minister was another highlight. We produced 30 drafts before we were happy with it, and seeing the government implement it was rewarding.’

Most significant industry change: ‘I will be fascinated to see how the latest versions of the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering Directive regulations affect global industry and how well they survive contact with the human rights put in place across Europe in the wake of the WWII to safeguard the private citizen from overmighty state actors. 

‘This issue is closely linked to laws that are yet to be fully written to give citizens full control over their personal data so it can’t be used by technology rich firms to exploit them and their families.’

How do you relax?: ‘Does a regulator ever have time away from work? Watching trees grow, cutting wood and animal husbandry spring to mind.’

Bio

Conor first entered the financial services industry in 1993 and has held marketing and distribution roles across Europe, the Middle East and Far East during this time. Now based in Dublin, he heads up intermediary sales for SEB Life International, which works with intermediaries, banks and asset managers who have clients across selected European markets. 

What have been your career highlights: ‘Living in different parts of the world has given me a far deeper understanding of changing personal circumstances, which are increasingly becoming the norm for many clients. Personally experiencing changing needs has assisted me in understanding the requirement for flexible product and service design.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The UK RDR started the shift to more transparent and sustainable remuneration structures that reward longer-term relationships with clients. This has had a profound impact on the industry in the UK and other countries are following suit. 

‘The Insurance Distribution Directive will introduce greater disclosure and transparency requirements as has the Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products regulation. All these changes will help drive the industry to greater transparency, which will improve competition and clarity for clients.’

Bio

Ravi was appointed managing director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2011. He was previously permanent secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry and deputy secretary at the Ministry of Finance.

Career highlights: Ravi began his career at MAS in 1987. During his 16 years there, he was involved in monetary policy, econometric forecasting, organisational development, banking regulation and liberalisation, and integrated supervision of complex financial institutions. He spent a year at the Bank for International Settlements in Basel as a member of the secretariat to the Financial Stability Forum. 

A recipient of a gold medal for meritorious service and public administration from the Singapore government, Ravi has served on a variety of boards in the public, private and people sectors in the region’

Bio

Gina has been a multi-business owner, having set up her first company in 1987. She started her first financial services marketing agency in 1996 and is focused on improving outcomes against contemporary realities as well as improving customer experiences.

Along with her husband Alan, she launched the True and Fair Campaign in 2012, which has been successful in highlighting research costs, closet index tracking, hidden fees, fund labelling, investment and holdings transparency and regulatory failings. Their work has resulted in contributions to three EU directives – Article 24 of Mifid II, Prips and the Shareholder Rights Directive.

Gina’s accolades include CEO Today’s Business Women of the Year Award 2018, Harper’s Bazaar Campaigner of the Year 2018, Political Campaigner of the Year 2017, PAM 50 Most Influential Wealth Management 2017 and Spear’s City Champions for Moral Leadership 2014.

She is a global peace ambassador for the Tutu Foundation and a regular contributor to topical news programmes. 

Bio

Graham has 30 years’ international industry experience having worked in the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore and the UAE with life businesses across multiple jurisdictions. He joined Hansard Global in July 2013 to help implement Hansard’s business growth strategy and plans. Graham has specialised in sales, distribution and marketing across several senior leadership roles.

Biggest influence: ‘There are two people who have been great influences because they follow a consultative and systematic approach to sales management, and that is the underlying reason
for my success so far.’

Greatest challenge: ‘To remain relevant when, through education and advances in technology, consumers can make financial plans, invest money, set up savings plans, apply for life insurance online and review their plans without help at very little cost. This situation is both a challenge and an opportunity.’ 

Bio

Andy’s early career was with KPMG before he ventured into the financial services sector through a position at Eagle Star, later moving to Nationwide Building Society. He joined Britannic Assurance as head of finance in 2004. In 2009, he became finance director of Britannic’s combined life operations and CEO in 2014. In 2018, upon the acquisition of Standard Life Assurance, Andy also added the responsibility for the Heritage business to his role.

Most significant industry change: ‘Two regulatory changes have significantly shaped the insurance industry. Pension freedoms, introduced in the 2015 Budget, have had a significant impact on our industry, enabling our customers to have a greater level of freedom and choice in how they access their retirement savings, but also necessitating complex financial decisions to be made.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘A challenge for all providers is ensuring they continue to engage their customers, especially those that have been with them for several years. We recently launched a programme to unite unclaimed policies with their rightful owner or next of kin. We have also improved engagement through investing in our digital infrastructure and digitising the customer journey for over two million Phoenix Life customers.’

How do you relax?: ‘Golf and watching Wolves FC, where for once we are in a good phase.’

Bio

Caroline started her career after university as an administrator in an IFA’s office, checking application forms for two advisers. She progressed as a team leader in operations for Equitable Life and Jupiter Asset Managers. Following this she joined Selestia, which was a new business being set up by Old Mutual. 

Career highlights: After 10 years, Caroline moved to HSBC Bank to lead the proposition team for the direct-to-customer sharedealing platform. After this she moved into the European, then global wealth teams to implement new investment platform and business models. Over five years, they launched new technology in France, Greece, Malta, Jersey, Hong Kong, Singapore and Canada. She was approached by the Liberty Group in South Africa to transform their platform business and implement global best practice in operations and IT. 

Greatest influence: ‘The biggest influence came from the executives at Selestia and Old Mutual. I learnt so much about technology and leadership from them. To name a few: John Tomlins, Bill Vasilieff, Brett Williams, Jim Sutcliffe, Peter Mann and Michelle Cracknell. How they grew a business from a start-up to a success was inspirational and their approach to creating a culture of fun and accountability I have taken into my own style of leadership.’

How do you relax?: ‘I enjoy running on Table Mountain, spending time with my three boys and savouring the wine from the 650 vineyards around Cape Town.’ 

Bio

Mahmoud joined AIG in 1974, moving to the UK as sales manager in 1979. After holding various senior leadership roles he relocated to Dubai in 1982. In 1989, he established Eagle Star International brokerage in the UAE and Bahrain, which evolved into Eagle Star International Life. In 1997, Zurich Financial Services and Eagle Star merged and became Zurich International Life. Mahmoud held the position of managing director for the Middle East until 2006, when he led a management buyout of the ZIL Direct Distribution network in the Middle East and founded Nexus Insurance Brokers and Nexus Financial Services.

Career highlights: ‘A long-term involvement in helping to create new training and development opportunities for financial professionals in the Middle East led to being appointed international vice-president by the Chartered Insurance Institute in 2007. This has made a significant contribution to the careers of many people in the region and has also increased clients’ confidence in the quality of advice they are receiving.’

Bio

Michael has extensive operational, leadership and strategic expertise. Following 10 years at Mobil he joined BCG, consulting on banking, airlines, mining and biotech. As CEO he transformed Vision BioSystems from an unprofitable contract manufacturer into a vertically integrated, profitable business with distribution to 60 countries. At Praemium, Michael and his team are building a cutting edge, integrated technology and investment solution. 

Career highlights: ‘I’m proud of much of what we’ve accomplished at Praemium, but the Blackrock SMA acquisition in particular. This was a coup as we were not even invited to the initial tender. We fought hard to demonstrate our passion for the business and our capability to build on their proposition, and that acquisition has been a game changer for the company.’

Greatest influence: ‘Professor Amanda Sinclair from the Melbourne Business School, who taught me to be aware of my natural cognitive biases. This helps me even today in challenging my own prejudices. Though I am still a work in progress, when faced with a dilemma I try first to objectively look for my own blind spots.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Mifid II requires disclosure of all costs of running a fund, including transaction fees, taxes, clearing costs, performance and incidental fees. Some ex-post-cost revelations have been shocking, and while some can be justified, often they cannot. Advisers will do well to look closely at the funds in which they invest.’

Bio

Bob has worked in the financial services industry for more than 35 years. In 1992, he set up an agency sales team for Friends Provident and, in 2004, became sales director of Friends Provident International, building new business to record levels, before moving to Investors Trust Assurance as managing director and latterly chairman. After five years there he set up his own company, Cadel Consulting. Bob has been involved in the Association of International Life Companies since 2004, heading
up the sales committee and for the past 10 years serving as deputy chairman and chairman. In 2018,
he became the CEO. 

Career highlights: ‘I have been lucky enough to work with so many dedicated and talented professionals in this wonderful industry, many of who have become dear friends. I am particularly proud of developing people into inspirational leaders and growing businesses. This includes bringing to market the first standalone critical illness contract and involvement in the first computer-based training programmes.’

How do you relax?: ‘Relaxing for me is far from sitting on the sofa with the paper. I have played football since I was five years old, playing semi-professionally. I recently played my last game, going out in style winning a cup final as the oldest player in the competition. In the same weekend I won an International Tennis Federation competition and now have a world ranking at senior level of 493. When not playing sport I listen to music, love going to festivals, watching films and taxi driving my kids.’

Bio

James runs Aisa Group and the EU-based OpesFidelio network. He has won multiple awards for financial advice and built a series of companies in multiple jurisdictions. His RAF background as a pilot led the CII recently to feature him in a booklet for successful ex-serviceman interested in financial services. 

Career highlights: ‘The move to digital technology led to the setting up of OpesFidelio. It allows us to influence and lead where before we had been isolated. Personal highlights have been serving as a pilot in the RAF, obtaining my commercial airline transport pilot licence, setting up a successful business, serving in politics and bringing up two children.’

Biggest  influence: ‘My business partner Clive Tutton. I often get the plaudits being out front, but I would have failed without him.’

Bio

David Pugh is a board member and chief commercial officer at The Fry Group, currently heading the group’s global sales and marketing initiatives. He previously spent 10 years in Asia leading the firm’s south-east Asia operations. Prior to this, he established a thorough grounding in financial planning as a financial practitioner in London. He is an associate of the Institute of Financial Planning and a certified financial planner.

Biggest influence: ‘My dad taught me there is no substitute for hard work and that has been a valuable lesson throughout my career. My colleagues at The Fry Group have consistently impressed me with their collegiate, hands-on attitude and dedication to clients.’ 

Greatest challenge: ‘Wealth management is
in high demand and competition is growing, yet firms still don’t succeed in building full engagement and loyalty with clients. We have to understand better what matters most to them, what they value – and then deliver it.’ 

How do you relax?: ‘Family, friends and, now I’m back in the UK, the beautiful English countryside.’

Bio

A chartered accountant by qualification, Krishnan has over three decades of experience in financial services, including wealth management, merchant banking, M&A, private equity and corporate finance. Since 2006, he has been CEO of Barjeel Geojit Financial Services in Dubai, offering savings, investment solutions and products that cater predominantly
to non-resident Indians based in the UAE. 

Biggest influence: ‘The greatest influence in my life has been the financial markets I am part of. My learnings and multi-faceted experiences over the decades have been amazing and have nurtured and moulded me into what I am today.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Over the past 10 years the industry has evolved to become more robust and compliant. This has increased the costs of compliance and risk management, especially considering multi-jurisdiction rules and requirements. The industry needs to converge and adapt to a common framework, especially as the world of investments is becoming one marketplace.’

Bio

Andrew is group CEO of Private Client Holdings and heads the wealth management division. He acts as a family officer and has had extensive exposure to the international tax, accounting, share portfolio management and fiduciary needs of private clients for more than two decades. Andrew is a member of various industry bodies and passionate about the financial wellbeing of his international high net-worth clients and their families.

Career highlights: ‘Transforming a small company focused on tax advice into a full-service, multi-family office with more than 100 staff that is a multiple award-winning wealth manager. Other highlights are establishing an inclusive company culture, client-centricity, professionalism and trust.’

Biggest influence: ‘I have had two great influences. The first is Grant Alexander, my business partner. His considered, independent views and in-depth technical knowledge have been a significant contributor to our success. The other is my father, who taught me everything outside of the financial world, for which I am eternally grateful.’ 

Bio

Keith has more than 30 years’ experience operating at executive level across manufacturing, distribution and intermediated professional advice. He is a figurehead within the sector and sits on many committees and think tanks. Keith was appointed CEO of the Personal Finance Society in May 2013 and subsequently took on the additional role of managing director of engagement for the Chartered Insurance Institute in August 2016. 

Greatest challenge: ‘Economic and political challenges in many regions with an evident skills shortage and lack of new talent are common themes. The need to raise professional standards and provide greater transparency of charges and commission by different regulatory authorities across the world will bring disruption and change.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Unquestionably the UK’s Retail Distribution Review has had the biggest impact, with the raising of qualification standards, abolition of commission and the requirement to complete a minimum of 35 hours’ continuing professional development annually.

‘Mifid II is a close second but all countries will become increasingly aligned as regulators share concerns and solutions across the world. I believe this will create an international standard, making a clear distinction between financial planning and the selling of insurance.’

Bio

Richard’s introduction to international financial services began with a move to Hong Kong in 1987 to open a regional office for Britannia Group, which later became Invesco. Subsequent positions as a director of Eagle Star Asia and sales director for Skandia International provided the platform to help build the Dominion Global Trends and Dominion Capital Strategies businesses.

Career highlights: ‘Joining Skandia as a young broker consultant. It was challenging, rewarding and tremendous fun. Moving to Asia in 1987 and launching a new business in Hong Kong on the day of the 19 October market crash is something I shall never forget. I look back at Skandia International with pride, leading a great sales team to repeated successes. Most important though was the launch of Dominion Capital Strategies in 2018, where an experienced team and ultra-modern savings and investment solutions makes sense of a lifetime in this business.’

Biggest Influence: ‘Carlos Parra, the founder and owner of Aiva until its sale to Old Mutual in 2012. He is a pioneer and a gentleman, and I am proud to be his business partner at Dominion Capital Strategies.’

Bio

Joakim established Custodian Life in 2013. He has a background in financial studies and a long career within the financial sector.

Career highlights: ‘Establishing Custodian Life from scratch and building it into a successful and profitable company. The journey started more than seven years ago when I saw a need in the market for something new.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Regulatory changes are not a new phenomenon but an ongoing process. However, the trend today is much more global than local, where the EU and the US are the driving powers.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The challenge for the sector is to comply with an increased global legal regime and to understand what distribution channels should be used. Adopting more flexible approaches that leverage evolving technologies is key. Any actor not responsive and creative enough will find it difficult surviving.’

Bio

Mark has extensive senior management experience across leading global markets and expertise in developing world-class teams. He moved to Dubai 10 years ago and within a few short years led a pension provider to dominate its market sector.

Career highlights: ‘I am proud to have pioneered a business model that many international pension firms emulate. I love innovating and being at the vanguard of international financial services. Joining Praemium in 2016 allowed me to accelerate that. My team at Praemium is incredible and it was a real honour to collect the International Adviser Investment Platform of the Year award in 2018 on their behalf.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Technology has changed the way investors behave. They expect a better, faster, more personalised experience. Firms that embrace technology will flourish; those that don’t will go the way of the dinosaurs.’

Greatest challenge: ‘To embrace evolving technology to enhance the client experience, helping them access more relevant information in a timely manner.’

How do you relax? ‘I spend a lot of time away from home. This means I truly value time spent with my family. There is nothing better than weekend BBQs, playing in the garden with the kids and jumping in
the pool.’

Bio

Ashok has been advising clients for more than 37 years. He is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) and a ‘Top of the Table’ qualifier for over 20 years. He is an internationally certified financial adviser from the Chartered Insurance Institute of London. 

Career highlights: ‘The most rewarding part of my career has been starting my own brokerage, which has allowed me to offer the best financial solutions to my clients. It gives me immense satisfaction to know I am able to help my clients secure their financial future. Our team of 200 share a unified vision and ethos. We are celebrating our 25th anniversary and I look forward to celebrating our 50th. This is just the beginning.’

Biggest influence: ‘My association with the MDRT for the past 25-30 years has allowed me to interact with industry stalwarts such as Ben and Mark Felman, John Savage, Tony Gordan, Norman Lavine and Mehdi Fakharzadeh, to name just a few. These people have made a huge impact on my commitment and belief in my profession.’

Bio

DJ spent 16 years with Citibank, responsible for insurance and investment businesses across the EMEA region, which gave him a ringside view as regulations swept across the region. Prior to that, he spent several years at American Express Bank. He founded Capstone and Bankonus.com three years ago.

Greatest challenge: ‘During the next five years this industry will face some key challenges. Competition will intensify and the focus will be on new ideas, easier execution and transparency. There will be a massive change in client expectation. Information will be traded over social media and trust will get built and destroyed over the same platform.

‘Regulators are more aware of clients’ interest and are not hesitant to make fundamental changes. These regulations will be mostly focused on the client side of the business. Big data will also change the industry.

‘As all these trends converge, the biggest challenge will be to build a business model that will last, and one that delivers digitally led hybrid advice, customised for individual investors, focused on goal-based planning and outcome-driven investing.’

Bio

Andrew joined Brooks Macdonald in 2002. He is chairman of the two companies within the international business and also a member of the group’s executive management committee. Prior to that, Andrew worked at Shepherd Associates Financial Management as investment director. 

Career highlights: ‘Working with clients has always been a career highlight and the satisfaction gained from solving a problem for them. Listing Brooks Macdonald Group on London’s Alternative Investment Market was a huge achievement. I joined the business when we had 30 employees and £250m funds under management, and have seen it grow to more than 400 employees and £12bn-plus funds under management.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The biggest challenge currently is the political environment with the unresolved Brexit position affecting the UK, Europe and beyond. Tensions in the Middle East, China and the US are also affecting the global economic situation. This uncertainty will drive global economics over the next five years, which in turn will impact on client returns.’

Bio

Nigel is founder and CEO of Insight Discovery, a UAE-based consultancy business. He moved to the Middle East in 2001, initially to establish a joint venture for the Bank of New York Mellon. Nigel is also behind the ground-breaking aggregator website whichfinancialadviser.com, which was launched in 2019. 

Biggest influence: ‘One person who deserves a mention is Clive Richards OBE, a serial entrepreneur who was my mentor from the age of 20. Clive is a private equity investor and helped secure my first job with Arbuthnot Latham. It is all thanks to Clive that I’m still indirectly involved with the asset management industry.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The UAE has far too many regulators: five in total. This is a major challenge as it creates confusion for both consumers and advisory firms, which is one of the reasons why we launched whichfinancialadviser.com.

‘There needs to be more consultation between the regulators and leading advisory firms. In my opinion, there have been too many badly thought-out knee-jerk decisions.’

Bio

Nick worked in various industries from high-end tailoring to oil production before entering the financial industry a few days after Black Monday in October 1987. He joined Prudential in the UK and moved upward through the company to become an area manager. He then worked at Winterthur Life and Friends Provident before moving to Hong Kong with one of the world’s largest IFAs. He started as a consultant, moving up to a brief stint as its Hong Kong CEO. Nick left in 2012 to help create the Taylor Brunswick Group.

Career highlights: ‘Starting at one of the most difficult times in the industry, three days after Black Monday in October 1987. Enjoying a successful career helping others to move forward in the industry and advising clients. This led ultimately to co-steering the Taylor Brunswick Group into one of the leading IFAs in Asia.’

Greatest challenge: ‘At this turning point for all advisory firms, ensuring value propositions that remain relevant in order to retain and acquire clients in a rapidly changing environment is one of the greatest opportunities and challenges to building a long-term and sustainable business model.’

Bio

Derek moved into financial services in 1966. He worked for the Yorkshire Insurance Company, Standard General Insurance, Willis, Faber & Dumas and Roland (Standard Bank Assurance Brokers) and Southern Life before starting a brokerage, the Financial Group, in 1987. 

Career highlights: Derek was the key initiator and developer of an umbrella fund administration company, Total Care Strategy, that led to the first-of-its-kind registration of umbrella fund rules in 1989. Total Care Strategy was sold to Sanlam Employee Benefits to become Sanlam Umbrella Fund Administrators. In 2010, Derek established the Professional Business Risk Analysis Council. In 2016, he began transforming the South African Independent Financial Advisors Association to The Voice of the IFA, which became a reality in 2017.

Greatest challenge: ‘Persuading clients they are getting real value in relation to the fees that they will have to pay directly to their advisers post-RDR. This is underpinned by a well-defined and mutually understood service level agreement that incorporates an annual, reviewable investment strategy plus a clear understanding of the journey into retirement.’

Bio

Paul has worked in the financial services sector for more than 25 years in the UK and mainland Europe. His experience is in the provision of independent advice and the promotion and distribution of investment funds and financial products. Now based in London, he is CEO of Feifa and secretary general of Fecif, two pan-European trade associations that support and represent the financial advice industry. He also runs a specialist consultancy business, which provides marketing, business development services and regulatory guidance for investment houses, trust companies, international pension providers and advisory firms. 

Career highlights: ‘Building a successful cross-border financial advice business from scratch and being one of the individuals that formulated, founded and then developed Feifa into a leading-edge trade association. Feifa has been instrumental in helping to raise the professional knowledge and standards of advisers, which is something its whole board and membership should be proud of.’

Most significant industry change: ‘In Europe,
the introduction in 2018 of Mifid II, the Insurance Distribution Directive and Priips was the largest deluge of regulation ever seen in the region.’

How do you relax? ‘With good food, great wine and lots of sport – mostly watching nowadays.’

Bio

Prior to his appointment as chairman of Blevins Franks in 2012, John created and launched Lombard International Assurance Luxembourg in 1991. This was the first truly pan-European life company, operating cross-border in all major EU countries. He retired from Lombard in 2011.

Career highlight: ‘The decision to create and launch Lombard International.’

Bio

Danielle is the managing director of Finsbury Associates, part of the wider Blue Sky Thinking Group, a UAE-based holding company. She has 14 years’ experience and frequently consults with government bodies and regulators. She holds qualifications with the Chartered Insurance Institute, Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments as well as the Financial Services Board in South Africa.

Career highlights: ‘I’m dedicated to raising the bar when it comes to industry standards. Our advisers are all qualified to a minimum level 3 standard and are put through ongoing CPD courses and training.

‘One of my proudest moments was setting up The Kids Initiative and Safe and Sound, which are free community engagement workshops delivering family safeguarding information as well as first-aid skills.’

Biggest influence: ‘I look for inspiration from a variety of sources, including mentors and principles such as Blue Ocean Strategy by W Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne, industry regulators, best practice standards and emerging technology, as well as my clients and team.’

Bio

James has worked in the finance industry since 1999 at international finance houses in the UK and Hong Kong. He joined The Fry Group in 2006, progressing to director of the Hong Kong office in 2010. He is a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute and regulated by the Securities & Futures Commission and Hong Kong Confederation of Insurance Brokers. James is a certified financial planner.

Biggest influence: ‘Clive Redding and Zoe Lade at the Nationwide Building Society were key influences in my early career. Nationwide provided a strong footing with its excellent training and close relationships with clients.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The introduction of commission disclosure in Hong Kong has had a positive impact as it brings other companies up to The Fry Group’s standards of fee transparency.’

Greatest challenge: ‘Keeping up with technology will be a major challenge. As ever, pricing pressure continues to drive efficiency and value creation, while attracting talent is a perennial concern.’

Bio

Graham worked in the UK banking industry for 29 years before moving into financial services. In 2004, he set up his own IFA company in the UK with a former work colleague, and that company is still running today.
He holds the UK Diploma 4 qualification, meaning he can advise clients in the UK and also expat clients in the UAE. In 2013, he set up Abacus Financial Consultants with four other founding partners. 

Career highlights: ‘My career highlight is the success of Abacus Financial Consultants and the winning of multiple awards over the past few years, in particular Best Adviser Firm in the Middle East for the past two years and Excellence in Investment Planning for the past three years from International Adviser. These accolades confirm our efforts to build and grow an ethical advisory business in the UAE have paid off.’

Most significant industry change: ‘RDR in the UK presented huge changes for the industry, with how advisers are remunerated for the work they undertake for clients and also requiring higher qualifications. Mifid II was introduced in 2018. This has had a huge impact for both firms and advisers, and this will continue throughout 2019.’

Bio

Jenny is a partner at LGT Vestra, where she specialises in global asset allocation, investment and portfolio restructuring. She manages money for resident and non-domiciled families and entrepreneurs, and until recently was chair of the investment committee at LGT Vestra. She is a member of the firm’s investment teams for multi-asset portfolios, regulated and unregulated, liquid and illiquid investments. 

Career highlights: Jenny’s financial planning, corporate and structuring background is useful in developing solutions for multi-asset portfolios with an emphasis on legacy and retirement planning. She has a special interest in developing family-friendly governance policies.

Prior to joining LGT Vestra in 2008, she spent 10 years with management consultants Booz Allen Hamilton, specialising in global asset management within the financial services practice.

She began her career at stockbroker Hoare Govett in 1986. Jenny is a trustee of the Wardour Chapel Trust.

Bio

Tom is the founder and CEO of the Forth Capital Group and a board member of Next Generation Investment Strategies. He is responsible for strategy and growth. Before creating Forth Capital, Tom gathered two decades of experience in wealth management at Bank of America, Royal Bank of Scotland and Standard Life. Forth Capital (Genève) was created in 2004, followed by offices in Hong Kong, Europe, Australia and the UK. 

Career highlights: ‘The creation of Forth Capital’s Next Generation Global Investment Strategies in 2016 through a partnership with Morningstar. Various blends of the growth and defensive funds create five risk-rated portfolios, meaning there is a portfolio to match every client.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The FCA’s decision to insist on UK advice for all defined benefit schemes no matter where the client lives. This has raised the standards on DB transfer advice and provides another layer of protection for our current and future clients.’

How do you relax? ‘I enjoy cycling, going to the gym and spending time with my family. I recently turned 50 and decided to cycle 1,969km (year of birth) over 50 consecutive days. The funds raised were donated to Social Bite, a charity based in Scotland that is helping in the fight to eradicate homelessness across the globe.’

Bio

Since joining the financial services in 1982, Phil has become a specialist in helping advisers cope with regulatory change, working with planners from Australia to the US. At Perceptive Planning, he mainly works with clients with assets and lifestyles across different jurisdictions. Phil served for more than 10 years on the boards of professional bodies in the UK and has worked with the Financial Planning Standards Board on its regulatory advice panel.

Career highlights: ‘Hopefully more to come but my time on the boards of professional bodies, speaking to so many planners around the world and successfully taking two different businesses to the 10-year mark.’

Most significant industry change: ‘In the UK, it’s RDR. We are now seeing the impact of regulatory convergence towards those principles in other jurisdictions around the world.’

Greatest challenge: ‘Accepting the move from being paid to sell products to charging fees for advice. It sounds simple but it changes culture, remuneration, recruitment and client relationships.
Do you want to be a doctor or a pharmacist?’

Bio

David has worked in financial services for 22 years, gaining broad experience across multiple fields. Having worked in London and Hong Kong, he has been the chief investment officer and responsible officer for Capstone for eight years. He started out at Robert Flemings then worked for JP Morgan before moving to the Man-Vector as a risk manager and trader.

Career highlights: ‘As a 22-year-old starting out as a banker in the City.’

Biggest influence: ‘Many different characters. I have also read many great financial books which have influenced me.’

Most significant industry change: ‘Regulation during the past 20 years has been ever-changing, so no specific regulation stands out.’

How do you relax? ‘With my family.’

Bio

Guy has developed an expertise in the social dynamics of industrialising economies. He joined AKG in 1992 and his initial role was to add social analysis to the company’s pioneering research into issues such as pension lapse rates, originally produced for the Securities and Investment Board. Following this, Guy moved into AKG’s wider financial services activities, developing customer and adviser-orientated company analysis.

Biggest influence: ‘My first boss was a ferociously bright and experienced actuary called Nick Anderton, the ‘A’ in AKG. While highly capable in financial terms, it was Nick’s lateral thinking and holistic view that was so inspiring. He showed me just how interesting work in the sector can be.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The collision of interlinked changes will be a massive challenge, including social change in terms of expectations of customers and who those customers are, the technology potential that exists but awaits application and the roles of government and regulators. At the extreme, some of what we consider fundamental, such as the very purpose of insurance, could be questioned.’

Bio

Bill Vasilieff was one of the four founding directors of Selestia where, having joined in 2001, he spent six years in the role of marketing director. He was also a fund manager at M&G where he spent eight years, ending up as executive director in charge of product development.

Career highlights: ‘I started my career as a salesperson, so making my first sale was a memorable achievement. Over the next five years I trained as an actuary before moving into marketing, which is where I began to make my name. My next exciting challenge was setting up the Old Mutual-owned platform Selestia. My experience gave me a taster of what it might be like to run my own business and I made the decision to set up Novia. Successfully launching Novia to market was a significant and rewarding challenge.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The Financial Services Act set the framework for what we are seeing now. I believe this piece of legislation was the direct precursor to RDR, which has had enormous impact and has been replicated throughout the world.

Bio

Prior to founding Blacktower in 1986, John worked for Schroders in London. In the early days of Blacktower he was responsible for driving forward the company’s international business model. It has now evolved into the Blacktower Group, a range of companies operating globally with its own IFA network, Nexus Global. In recent years it has launched its own range of funds and fund distribution business, Nexus Funds Distribution, which services the international adviser community.

Career highlights: ‘Watching the Blacktower Group grow from strength to strength and become a successful, multi-jurisdictional, financial advisory business and funds provider. This took a great deal of effort by all those involved, and building and leading such a strong team has been immensely rewarding.’

Greatest challenge: ‘The whole sector must regain its credibility and public trust. Too often we have seen a scandal headlined in the press, ranging from mis-sold investment products to pension scammers stealing investors’ funds. As an industry, we must pull together and have these practices removed from the market once and for all.’

Bio

David has over 35 years’ experience in the industry, with most of that spent offshore. His technical background is in pensions, and he has been a Ssas pensioner trustee and a staff pension scheme trustee as well as running personal and executive pensions. He is a co-founder of QB Partners and has developed the business into an independent technical resource for financial advisers and product providers.

Career highlights: ‘Working in Hong Kong for five years as regional head for an international life company gave me great experience of running an organisation. My boss was 6,000 miles and eight hours’ time difference away, which gave me greater autonomy.’

Most significant industry change: ‘The change to adviser remuneration from commission to fee-based. It is many years since this was introduced into the UK but the market has adapted and reinvented itself.’

How do you relax?: ‘I do my best to keep fit. This includes running or walking, depending upon the current state of my knees and back, gym and swimming. I have a great love of live music and have attended many music festivals over the years.’

Bio

Simon began his career working for Royal Life Insurance in 1982 before moving to Scottish Provident International, becoming a founding director of Acuity Consultants in 2002. He joined Axa Wealth International in 2012, which became Utmost Wealth Solutions in 2006. He has been at Acuity Corporate Consulting since 2018.

Career highlights: ‘Establishing the first life licence for a western business in Hong Kong for Scottish Provident International, after the Chinese handover in 1997. Facilitating a change in the law in 1996 to create a regional sales base for Scottish Provident International in Dubai. Bringing the discretionary fund management product delegation to the UK market at Axa Wealth International in 2013.’

Biggest influence: ‘David Woods. In the late ’90s, the former Scottish Provident chief worked at Royal Life establishing new life companies around the world. I cut my teeth in the international life market by carrying his bags, taking notes and listening. David showing faith in a gobby 25-year-old, allowing me front-seat access to the action.’

Bio

Jeremy has been employed within the financial services sector since the age of 18. He has worked for banks and big corporate companies.

Career highlights: ‘I am immensely proud to be CEO of a global 120-year-old business.’

Biggest influence: ‘My mentors and coaches. It is tough to take sometimes being on the end of feedback but if you are willing to embrace it then it allows you to grow.’

Most significant industry change: ‘If you’d asked me that a year ago I would have still said RDR. I think that has been trumped now by Mifid II, with the impact only just about to starting to hit.’

How do you relax?: ‘I am a bit of a petrol head so the occasional track day, the delights of Goodwood for the Festival of Speed or Revival. Plus, I am in the gym or on the golf course when time allows.’

Bio

Stuart has held the role of CEO at Farringdon for the past decade. He has expanded the business from a single office in Malaysia, to Singapore and Dubai, and obtained a licence in the US. He had a five-year term with the Labuan International Insurance Association council, during which he helped develop a programme to increase qualifications and regulations. Stuart currently heads up Farringdon’s operation in Dubai.

Greatest challenge: ‘It is clear the industry is shrinking in terms of competitors, mainly due to increased compliance costs and higher regulatory pressures. With all of the above taken into consideration, many firms now need to work together on educating the end client on what the compliance function actually is and why it is there.

‘They can then see why compliance costs rise and why certain providers have to levy additional fees. Eventually the end client won’t accept this and choose a better lower-cost solution, hence firms must think proactively.

‘Larger firms will align their clients to their own products or cheaper platforms that cut off heavy fees from external sources, which means they can keep things internal and reduce fees for the end client, while increasing revenue.’