10. Will Nicoll, CIO, RLAM on why trust, transparency, and disciplined decision-making define the modern CIO

In this episode of The CIO Chair Podcast, we sit down with Will Nicoll, chief investment officer at Royal London Asset Management, for a wide-ranging conversation on investment leadership, team building, and navigating uncertainty in today's markets.Drawing on decades of experience across asset management and institutional investing, Will shares why trust is the foundation of every successful investment organisation. He explains how CIOs can build high-performing teams, encourage constructive disagreement, and create an environment where people are motivated by purpose rather than hierarchy. His approach to leadership is rooted in transparency, honesty, and putting clients' interests first.The conversation also explores some of the most challenging moments of Will's career, including lessons learned during the Global Financial Crisis, the dangers of making decisions based on what feels "normal," and why patience is often one of the most underrated skills in investing. Will discusses the opportunities and challenges facing UK investors, the role of infrastructure in supporting economic growth, and how long-term investors should think about market cycles and portfolio resilience.Alongside his investment insights, Will offers thoughtful reflections on hiring, career development, and the importance of helping people find roles where they can thrive. His leadership philosophy is refreshingly simple: great teams are built on trust, great advice is clear and unbiased, and successful organisations are those that continue serving their clients long after today's leaders have moved on.https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all