Congratulations on winning the GC Legend Award! Could you share a bit about your background and your journey? 
I started my career over 35 years ago in operations at Bankers Trust, an organisation that many in the industry are very fond of. I was incredibly proud to work there and still vividly remember my first day – it was a significant moment for me.
Coming from a humble background, being part of such a global organisation felt like a dream come true. From the start, I had a strong sense that this was the career path I wanted to pursue, and I always felt a personal drive to prove that I could build a successful career.
I quickly transitioned from operations into various product roles, which gave me the chance to work overseas. The most important aspect of my journey has been the incredible mentors and supporters I’ve had along the way.
My network expanded rapidly, both within Bankers Trust and later in other organisations. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible opportunities – not only in London, but also in Asia, the Middle East, and now in the US.
Cultural awareness and diversity is something I’ve always felt strongly about, and it has been a crucial part of my growth. It’s allowed me to listen to and learn from global leaders and colleagues, which has made me a better person. I bring this learning into my personal life, always valuing global awareness and cultural acceptance as I navigate both my professional and personal journeys.
What does a “good day” at work look like for you?
No two days are ever the same, and that variation is a huge source of energy for me. Running a global business across multiple time zones – EMEA, Asia, and the US – definitely makes for long working days. But what really defines a “good day” for me is having personal interactions with the team.
While Zoom and Teams have become part of our culture, it’s crucial to stay connected in person. It’s not just about working through email; it’s about maintaining those direct connections with clients, and our team, including our operations and tech partners. That’s what makes the role truly rewarding.
For me, a good day includes a mix of personal interactions. I’m a big believer in the value of meeting people face-to-face, whether in the office or elsewhere. That human connection is an energiser for me every day.
What are some of the biggest changes and challenges you’ve witnessed in the industry throughout your career?
I believe the biggest change we’re experiencing is the shift to data and digitalisation. In my 35-year career, this transformation is the most significant – more so than any other shift I’ve seen in the past few decades. Client buying behaviour has evolved from a traditional service-provider model to a more collaborative, partnership-based approach. It’s a dynamic that is driven by data, and we now serve as custodians and administrators of our clients’ data. While we continue to focus on safeguarding assets and managing funds, today’s world revolves around data and upskilling. Our teams and importantly our clients are now much more focused on data delivery.
Another important shift I’ve observed is the growing emphasis on emotional intelligence (EQ) in leadership. While IQ remains crucial, EQ – and even PQ (personal intelligence) – have become key differentiators.
I think Covid really highlighted the importance of these qualities, along with mindfulness and well-being. People are now much more aware of the need for respect in these areas. There is a growing awareness of the importance of mindfulness, well-being, and being open to listening and learning from everyone.
What are your current priorities as the head of fund services at Citi?
We have a tremendous opportunity to leverage Citi’s vast network. We have an established and incredible client base, world-class capabilities, and we’re focused on building out our business with the client at the core – particularly with data driving that effort.
My team and I have learned a lot from our experiences and we’re implementing best-in-class digital capabilities. We’re not just doing more of the same; we’re developing our business in a fundamentally different, digital-first way. In fact, we’re leading the market in some areas, particularly with products that offer live digital capabilities. We are also investors in some exciting new technologies that will change the industry.
In fund services, we have a comprehensive agenda for 2025 across five business lines. Data remains central to everything we do, but simplification and growth are also key priorities. At the same time, it’s important that we keep the team energised and aligned, ensuring we’re all on the same page and delivering through technology and operations with laser like focus on our business and overall Services strategy.
What would you say is your proudest professional accomplishment, and why?
There are two accomplishments that stand out to me. First, proving to myself that I could reach the level of managing director at a major global organisation was a huge milestone – one that I’m very proud of.
The second is receiving the GC Legend Award. Looking back at my speech and the impact it had on the audience; it was truly special. Receiving the award itself was significant, but what made it even more meaningful was sharing a personal, humble story with the team. It reinforced that I have built a strong network, and the work I’ve done across the industry has been recognised.
Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self starting out in this industry?
The word I would emphasise is team. We hear about the importance of team from childhood through adulthood, but as you progress in your career, you begin to realise how vital it is to have the right people around you. The right people can truly hear you and understand your potential. I often tell my mentees that it’s crucial for supervisors and managers to seek out and offer opportunities to junior team members, just as I was fortunate to receive early in my career. You can never underestimate the power of having a champion in your corner, so my advice is to be that champion for someone else.
Even if you’re just starting out, whether you’re a year into your career or new to an organisation, you can be that champion. You can support someone who has just joined the team. Think of yourself as a leader from day one.
Additionally, with age comes wisdom, and you begin to truly appreciate what matters in life. The small things are often the most important, and when you have those, you realise you have everything you need. My advice is to avoid becoming so consumed with building your career that you forget to build your life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given that has stayed with you throughout the years?
The best advice I’ve ever received came from my father. He taught me the importance of working hard and never giving up, but most importantly, he emphasised the need to be respectful of everyone. We are all equal.