Flex and the City - Great leadership in financial services

I really enjoyed my conversation with Mandy Rawlinson, Head of UK and EMEA for Aberdeen Investments and author of You Don't Belong Here, for the latest episode of Flex and the City.Mandy's career didn't follow the path she originally imagined. Growing up in the Scottish Borders as a first-generation corporate, she studied law with ambitions of joining the police before finding her way into financial services. More than twenty years later, she now leads across the UK and EMEA, but what stayed with me wasn't the career journey itself. It was the conversation we had about the future of leadership and the skills we'll need most in the years ahead.As AI becomes part of more of what we do, it's easy to focus on the technical capabilities people will need to develop. Mandy challenged that thinking. She believes the skills we've spent years referring to as "soft skills", including judgement, storytelling, critical thinking, empathy and the ability to solve problems, will become even more valuable because they are the skills technology can't replace.In fact, she doesn't think they should be called soft skills at all.I think she's right.One of the other ideas that really resonated with me was her perspective on innovation. Organisations often say they want people to think differently, yet many are still uncomfortable with failure. If people don't feel they have permission to experiment, it's difficult to create the conditions where innovation can genuinely happen.It's a conversation that goes well beyond financial services. We talked about confidence, leadership, curiosity, and what it means to prepare both ourselves and the next generation for a world of work that is changing rapidly.It certainly gave me plenty to think about, and I hope it does the same for you. 🎙️

In the latest episode of Flex and the City, I was delighted to sit down with Denis Harty, Country Head of Waystone Continental Europe and CEO of Waystone Management Company, and one part of the conversation stayed with me in particular.His perspective on teamwork.Denis moved from County Kerry to Luxembourg 25 years ago and entered financial services almost by accident while studying law. Since then, he has built a career across firms including JP Morgan and Credit Suisse, and now helps lead an organisation of more than 2000 people globally.But what stayed with me was not the career journey. It was the way he described rugby as a metaphor for leadership and business.Every person has a role to play. The ball moves through multiple hands. If one person does not do their job properly, the next person cannot do theirs.“You don’t win in isolation.”It is a simple idea, but it says a lot about leadership. Strong teams are not built around one standout individual. They are built on trust, interdependence, and recognising that different people bring different strengths.For those entering the industry, his advice was equally practical. Stay curious. Keep adapting. Build skills beyond your specialism. The future belongs to people who can connect different disciplines and think more broadly about where value is created.He also shared a reminder that I think many people need to hear at some point in their career:“This too shall pass.”A grounded conversation about leadership, resilience, and what strong teams really look like in practice. 🎙️

I really enjoyed my conversation with Olivier Portenseigne, CEO of FundsDLT and Head of Digital at Clearstream Fund Services, for the latest episode of Flex and the City.He started his career as a temp, keying manual trades in Luxembourg. Nearly three decades later, he is leading a blockchain-based infrastructure platform.But what stayed with me was not the career journey. It was how simply he described his purpose:“We want to make funds accessible everywhere, anywhere, by anybody. Cheaper.”That's not a fintech pitch. That's a belief system. He also gave me the best leadership metaphor I've heard in a long time. The secret to success in finance? It's the same as the perfect boeuf bourguignon — harmony of ingredients. Different skill sets, different origins, different perspectives, all cooking together. Diversity isn't a nice-to-have. It's the recipe. It is a simple idea, but it lands. Diversity is not something separate. It is part of how good work actually happens.For those entering the industry, his advice was equally clear. Build your network early. Develop a strong understanding of technology, even if you are not technical. And learn to communicate a vision in a way that others can connect to and believe in.A conversation that gives you something to think about. 🎙️#FlexAndTheCity #Leadership #FinancialServices

Some leadership journeys do not start with a perfect plan. They start with a decision to jump.In this new episode of Flex and the City, I had the pleasure of speaking with Georges Bock, Founder and CEO of Investre S.A. and Moniflo.Georges spent decades in a senior leadership role at a Big Four firm. Successful. Respected. Comfortable. But he realised that comfort is not where transformation happens. So he took a leap without certainty, but with a strong sense of purpose.What followed was not just the creation of a company, but the beginning of a vision. To reimagine financial services as a more inclusive, transparent and human space. To help people not only grow their wealth, but also their freedom. To position money not as the problem, but as part of the solution.What stood out most in our conversation was Georges' honesty. He spoke openly about courage, failure and resilience. He reminded us that every meaningful career, whether entrepreneurial or corporate, includes setbacks and difficult decisions. The real difference lies in how you respond. You reflect, you learn, and then you stand up. Every time.In this episode, we explore:- Why entrepreneurship starts with courage, not certainty- How financial inclusion and sustainability belong together- Why failure is not the opposite of success, but part of the journeyGeorges' story is a powerful reminder that purpose and leadership are not titles. They are choices. They are acts of courage.

Some of the best leadership lessons come from the most unexpected places.In this new episode of Flex and the City, I had the pleasure of speaking with Albert Howard, Co-Founder and Director of Business Development at MiniBranch.Albert’s career path is anything but ordinary. From his early days in sales to his time in banking and now business development, every step of his journey has been guided by one simple idea — people come first.What struck me most in our conversation was his ability to draw leadership lessons from everywhere, even from selling mattresses. Albert shared how listening, curiosity, and genuine care are the foundations of trust, whether you’re serving customers or leading teams.We also talked about how credit unions are redefining connection and community in financial services, and how adaptability, honesty, and empathy continue to shape meaningful leadership.In this episode, we explore:➡️ What the financial world can learn from the mattress industry➡️ How curiosity and empathy build loyalty that lasts➡️ Why trust is still the ultimate competitive advantage➡️ The human side of leadership, business, and growthAlbert’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is not about titles or hierarchy. It’s about presence, curiosity, and the courage to keep learning.

I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Philip Brown, CEO of Clearstream Banking S.A., and I have to say, this conversation really stayed with me.From his early days in banking during London’s Big Bang to leading one of Luxembourg’s most established institutions, Phil’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and connection.What struck me most was his deep belief in people, in trust, long-term relationships, and the human side of finance. He reminded me that leadership isn’t about control but about creating space for others to grow and thrive.In this new episode of Flex and the City, we explore how purpose, curiosity, and connection continue to shape leadership in an increasingly complex industry.In this episode:➡️ Why trust, relationships, and integrity still define success in the post-trade world➡️ The marginal gains mindset and how lessons from cycling and cooking can transform efficiency and leadership➡️ Why young professionals should embrace curiosity, problem-solving, and flexibility over perfect planning➡️ How the financial industry can reshape its narrative by highlighting its real human impactFor anyone passionate about leadership, trust, and purpose in financial services, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧

I had the immense pleasure of interviewing Dr. Stephanie Eckermann, Executive Board Member of Deutsche Börse AG and Chairwoman of Clearstream entities, for Flex and the City.We talked about career paths, female leadership, attracting young talent to finance, AND the surprising link between running a global post-trade business and hosting a great BBQ.From AI to agency, data to diversity—this episode is packed with insights for leaders at every level.- The REAL skills modern finance leaders need- Why curiosity at the top isn’t optional- Attracting the next gen to finance- AI, agency, and authenticityStephanie is a powerhouse in European finance—and also a mother of three, a diversity champion, and someone who leads with heart and clarity in a complex world.It’s bold, brilliant, and absolutely worth a listen.

In this new episode of Flex and the City, I sit down with Stéphane Pesch, CEO of the Luxembourg Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (LPEA).He’s not just navigating Luxembourg’s private capital space — he’s shaping it.And he’s doing it with values, vision, and a deep belief in people.💥 In this episode:➡️ From liquid funds to private equity — Stéphane’s personal pivot➡️ Why curiosity, adaptability and self-belief are non-negotiables for future leaders➡️ How Luxembourg is building an ecosystem rooted in purpose, education, and innovation➡️ The books and moments that shaped his leadership philosophyThis one’s thoughtful, grounded — and just disruptive enough.🎙️ Tune in now — and hear leadership through a very different lens.

In this week’s episode of Flex and the City, I’m joined by Florent Albert, CEO of Utmost, for an insightful conversation on the art of leading through change.Florent’s journey spans the globe—Provence, New Caledonia, Paris, Leeds, the US—and each chapter has shaped his unique approach to leadership. From navigating mergers and acquisitions to understanding team dynamics and regulation, one thing is clear: change is inevitable, but it’s how leaders respond that truly matters.Florent doesn’t just manage change—he thrives through it. He embraces resistance, knowing that creating a sense of safety, calm, and connection is what sparks meaningful transformation.𝗧𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿:- How to hold responsibility with grace, even in uncertain times- Why calmness is the ultimate leadership superpower- How to stay grounded and human in an increasingly data-driven worldThis episode is for anyone who’s navigating personal or professional transformation—the journey to change can be tough, but it’s a lot easier when you have the right mindset.

In the final episode of Flex and the City for 2024, I have the pleasure of connecting with the visionary Paul Chapman, Managing Director of HornbyChapman! 💼✨ Paul shares his invaluable insights on why the next generation of Financial Services professionals—especially Gen Z—must embrace AI and sharpen their sales skills to thrive in this dynamic industry. Key Takeaways:Resilience wins: Your circumstances don't define your future. Paul's story is a testament to perseverance and embracing change, showing that life’s biggest shifts can lead to unexpected growth. ✨Embrace innovation: Paul highlights the transformative power of technologies like AI, blockchain, and DLT to replace outdated systems. He encourages the new generation to adopt these tools and challenges older leaders to recognize younger workers’ strengths and fresh perspectives. 🔄 Be open to new beginnings: Moving beyond your comfort zone, whether it’s relocating or embracing new skills, can open doors you never imagined. Paul urges young professionals to prioritize sales skills, build trust-based relationships, and seek balance and happiness over money. 🌍 Focus and discipline matter: Drawing parallels between clay pigeon shooting and success in financial services, Paul shares his "traffic light system" for mental focus.🔴 Red = Relax and enjoy life.🟠 Amber = Prepare to focus.🟢 Green = Fully commit and execute with precision.Mental health matters: Paul reflects on the growing awareness of stress and burnout, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy from leaders. Removing stigma and fostering healthier environments is key to long-term success. 😇 Paul's story is a powerful reminder that our past shapes us, but it doesn’t hold us back.Tune in for personal reflections, life lessons, and inspiration to keep pushing forward! 🎧#Podcast #Leadership #Resilience #Innovation #LifeJourneys #FlexInTheCity #Inspiration

In the latest episode of Flex and the City, I had an inspiring conversation with Brian Godins, Chief Commercial Officer at Callistone. His 31-year journey through financial giants like Morgan Stanley and HSBC offers insightful wisdom for every listener.The Chief Commercial Officer of Calastone shares what financial services can learn from Doods the cat and how they need to adapt and stand out to attract Gen Z talent.  🚀A Few Key Highlights:From Tennis Dreams to Finance: Brian’s shift from aspiring sports commentator to a leader in finance highlights the power of embracing unexpected opportunities. 🎾 Leadership Style: Emphasizing team dynamics, client engagement, and continuous learning, he draws inspiration from mentors like Kian Burke and Ria Leckie. 💡 Attracting Gen Z: By understanding their needs for transparency and diverse opportunities, Brian reveals strategies for drawing young talent into the financial sector. 👩‍💼 Brian’s reflections offer a profound understanding of the evolving landscape in financial services, emphasizing adaptability and a human-centered approach to success. #Leadership #GenZ #Diversity #Inclusion #FinancialServices #CareerInsights #FlexAndTheCity #Podcast #BrianJourney🎧 Don't miss out on these insights—tune in today! 

𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗱: 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 🚀In my latest episode of Flex and the City, I engaged in an enlightening conversation with Philippe Renard, Deputy CEO of Caecis and former CEO of RBC in Luxembourg. Philippe shares his remarkable journey from engineering to finance, offering valuable insights that resonate across industries.𝗔 𝗙𝗲𝘄 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: Philippe transitioned from a chemical engineering background into banking, emphasizing that banking operations can be viewed through an industrial lens—focusing on processes, KPIs, and scalability.𝗘𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀: As market margins shrink, financial institutions must prioritize efficiency and cost management, similar to manufacturing practices.𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Philippe stresses the importance of fostering diverse teams to unlock potential and drive innovation, acknowledging that the financial industry has a long way to go in achieving gender balance.Philippe Renard’s insights offer a fresh perspective on leadership and the future of financial services. His journey underscores the importance of adaptability, diversity, and a human-centric approach in driving success. 🌍💼

I'm thrilled to share our latest episode of Flex and the City, where I had the privilege of speaking with David Sarfas, The Managing Director at CSC. 🎙️ ✨ In this episode, David Sarfas, Co-Head of Global Funds and UK Country Head at CSC, shares his thoughts on the future of financial services. He emphasises that if the industry wants to win gold, it must focus on increasing transparency, safety, and security—not just for its clients but for the public as a whole. 💼 🎯 In this episode, David also opens up about:🚀 Navigating a global career in financial services — The unique challenges and opportunities he encountered while working across major financial hubs. 💙 Leadership with energy and authenticity — Why bringing your true self to work can fuel your success and inspire those around you. 💡 Advice for young professionals — Valuable tips on breaking into the industry and making an impact, no matter where you start. 📗 Must-read recommendations for CEOs — David shares the one book he believes every business leader should have on their shelf.FlWhether you're just starting out in the industry or you're a seasoned professional, David’s global insights and leadership experience offer invaluable lessons on navigating today’s dynamic financial landscape. 

Dave Micallef dives into an engaging conversation with Aric Faber, the dynamic President and CEO of SalesPage, on the latest episode of Flex and the City.From starting with Aric Faber's background, leadership philosophy, and experiences in business. To emphasising the importance of authentic leadership, influenced by his early experiences in sports and mentorship. He values teamwork and building a strong, motivated team that aligns with personal and professional goals. He also highlights the need for the financial services industry to better communicate its positive impact on society and suggests that companies should offer flexible roles to attract diverse talent.From Athlete to Advisor: Aric talks about giving back to nurture talent and foster success.

Had an amazing interview with Emanuele Vignoli, the CEO of HSBC in Luxembourg on Flex and the City, and it did not disappoint! 🎙️✨Emanuele dives deep into “Gender Finance” and his passion for boosting diversity in financial services. He stresses the importance of authentic leadership, continuous development, and staying curious in our ever-changing world. 🌍Emanuele also champions the development of new leaders, emphasising personal growth and patience as keys to success. Hear his insights on what it means to be a “post-pandemic leader” today. 🚀Family and Self care were his words of wisdom highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between professional aspirations and personal well-being. 🏡💖

🎙️ Today on Flex and the City, we took a virtual trip to Bella Italia with Francesca Prym! As the CEO of UBS Fund Management in Luxembourg and Head of UBS Mancos Europe, Francesca brought one important thing—ENERGY.You’ll walk away from this episode feeling inspired, energised, and reassured by her incredible insights and passion for the industry. 🌟Francesca's vision for the future of fund management in Europe is innovative and deeply committed to excellence and sustainability. 🌍✨ Tune in to hear about the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing market and her personal journey to leadership.Don't miss out on this captivating conversation. Get ready to feel uplifted and ready to tackle new challenges! 💪

In this special edition of Flex and The City, Dave Micallef engages in an eye-opening conversation with none other than Kirsty Watson, the powerhouse Chief Operating Officer of  Advisors at abrdn. Kirsty takes us on a journey from her roots in Dunfermline, Scotland, to her unexpected path into the world of financial services. Drawing inspiration from leaders like Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, and Sheryl Sandberg, Kirsty shares her valuable insights on leadership, emphasising the importance of humility, bravery, and human connection. As the conversation unfolds, Kirsty highlights the importance of diversity of perspectives and the transformative role of financial services in empowering individuals to make informed choices. Tune in to discover Kirsty's pearls of wisdom on the importance of hard work, seizing opportunities, and embracing challenges. Plus, gain valuable insights into the vibrant culture at Aberdeen Advisors and their customer-centric approach.

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Bhagesh Malde, the Global Head of SS&C GlobeOp, for a great new Flex and the City conversation. From starting his life in Kenya and then beginning his working career in The City of London to his journey across multiple continents, Bhagesh's story is one of adaptability, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of diverse perspectives.As an ethnic minority navigating the corporate world in the 90s, Bhagesh encountered unique challenges that fostered a deep appreciation for the richness that diversity brings to any team or organisation.What struck me most about Bhagesh was his contrarian thinking and unbridled enthusiasm for breaking barriers and challenging conventional wisdom. He has an unwavering belief in the power of diverse teams and diversity of thought. He passionately advocates for creating environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel empowered to contribute their unique perspectives, ultimately leading to more robust decision-making and innovation.So, if you're looking for a podcast episode that's packed with insight, inspiration, a real human leader and a healthy dose of spice, look no further than my conversation with Bhagesh Malde. Trust me, you won't want to miss it! 🌟

I had an incredible conversation with Craig Blair, the Country Head of Franklin Templeton Luxembourg on Flex and The City.  Craig is authentic, humble and thoughtful in his approach to leadership.He speaks from the heart and believes that everyone can be successful. We spoke about his childhood in Belfast, the impact of the "troubles" and the strength of his mother often alone raising 3 children as well as his passion for travel, music and rugby.Craig is passionate about cultural and neurodiversity having experienced this at different stages in his life within his family and in the workplace in different locations around the globe.His career spans from the automotive industry to financial services and his passion for the long-term sustainability of the industry is clear. Craig's insights and leadership style are truly inspiring and serve as a reminder that one's past experiences can positively influence their future endeavours. His commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, as well as his dedication to ensuring the longevity of his industry, is commendable. We're excited to see what Craig Blair will do next!

It was a pleasure to host Falk Fischer on Flex and the City, where we delved into his 6 C’s: Cuba, China, Culture, Connection, Change, and Camping. Falk and I discussed the continual nature of change, encouraging us to take control and steer it. He also stressed the importance of understanding various cultures, arguing that this comprehension is crucial for appreciating different viewpoints. He expressed his view that the main assets in Financial Services are human beings; and we talked about the importance of the power of connecting with clients and employees on a personal level, even in challenging times.Falk believes that future leaders should pursue a good education, gain international experience, value perspectives, and welcome change. He also is passionate about the power and impact of honest dialogue.Thank you, Falk, for sharing your great insights and experiences. You are truly an authentic human being who represents the power of perspective.𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲!

Had a fantastic time interviewing Enrique Sacau on Flex and the City! As the Group CEO of Kneip, Enrique shared his insightful thoughts on appreciating what we have and avoiding making things too complex in general and also in the fund industry. He also shed light on the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the ever-changing business and geopolitical landscape. Thanks for sharing your wisdom, Enrique! We all need to stop the Drama would be my big takeaway from this great conversation. His humility was truly inspiring.𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲!

Had a fantastic time interviewing Benjamin Collette on #FlexandtheCity. 🎙️ ✨ We delved into how the financial industry can learn from the kitchen—just as the right mix of ingredients makes a great dish, diversity in financial services teams can lead to great success. 🥘 🚀 He also shed light on the preconceived notions surrounding financial services being an exclusive club. His dedication to breaking down these barriers through financial education is inspiring.Thank you, Benjamin, for sharing your wisdom and expertise. 🌟 

Wonderful to interview Elaine Chim from Apex Group who brings both Yin and Yang to financial services.Elaine was born and raised in Glasgow to Asian immigrants and after starting her career in London has spent the last decade in New York Yin and Yang is the symbol of harmony that reminds us that life is a balancing act and we are most fulfilled when we learn to embrace its dualities. Elaine talks about the need to embrace empathy and foster a balanced approach in leadership to ensure sustainable performance.  She believes that by integrating empathy and pragmatism, we can create a financial ecosystem that is not only prosperous but also fair and inclusive. Join Elaine as she discusses how financial services can harness the power of perspectives, and an appreciation for different cultures in order to bring a sense of harmony and balance to the industry. 

Flex and the City is back after the summer vacation and who better to interview than Martin Vogel the Global Strategy Officer of Waystone. 🎧 🎙️ 🌟 𝗜𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻'𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗵𝗲'𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀. Plus, we'll be discussing his 𝗷𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺, and how his military background has shaped his view on what it takes to lead. We'll also 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗜 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆, his vision on the balance of regulation, and his perspective on the challenges and opportunities resulting from AI. 🤖 Join us for this exciting conversation and discover how this industry stalwart continues to break barriers and redefine the role of leadership in the financial sector. Don't forget to tune in, like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more inspiring conversations from leaders around the globe! 💫 🌍 

Flex and the City is coming to you from Switzerland🇨🇭 today, where we had the fantastic opportunity to sit down with the self-proclaimed "fund nerd" Norbert Schmitz.Norbert shares his unique perspective on leadership and communication in the funds industry, drawing from the intriguing analogy of pets and their owners. He believes that, much like the special bond and understanding between pets and their owners, leaders and their teams in the funds industry should also share a strong connection.During our in-depth conversation, Norbert emphasizes the significance of trust, transparency, and empathy in effective leadership. He also shares how his passion for people❤️ drives him to engage in various humanitarian endeavours.In addition, Norbert offers his insights on the current trends and challenges within the funds industry and shares his predictions for what lies ahead. He highlights the urgent need for the industry to scale up and take proactive measures to retain its top talent.We truly enjoyed our time with Norbert, gaining invaluable insights from his extensive experience in the funds industry. Don't miss this captivating conversation with one of the industry's most enthusiastic and knowledgeable professionals. Follow Flex and the City for more updates and join the discussion on the latest developments in the world of finance. 

I loved interviewing Michael Fox - he gave me real goosebumps.From discussing his humble beginnings to his unwavering passion for encouraging new talent to join the financial services industry, Michael's story is truly remarkable. Michael discusses the importance of social mobility and highlights key elements of great leadership: effective communication, authenticity, having a clear vision, empowering others, and fostering inclusivity!But what really gave me goosebumps was hearing about his brave and emotional journey of belatedly coming out and living his truth. 🏳️‍🌈✨ His words of wisdom for young people to embrace and live their authentic selves are both powerful and much-needed. 🙌

Claire Marshall is an agent of change driven by doing the right thing.From beginnings in the North of England and "meandering" her way to the role of Chief Internal Auditor for abrdn, Claire shares her views on harnessing the collective, the power of diversity of thought and the need for resilience (huge positives in that word meandering but you need to listen to the podcast) 😀.Claire brought a huge amount of joy and personal wisdom to the interview. She shared with vulnerability and humility her life-changing experience of Breast Cancer and how that has as a human being, mother and leader.We discussed the parallels between great parenting and leadership and agreed that coaching (asking not telling) and encouraging agency are key ingredients for healthy, resilient kids and sustainable organisations.

Sarah Sinclair is baking a new future for the financial services industry. 🎂 I met Sarah less than a month ago and it was quickly evident we shared alignment and passion on many subjects. As a result, I invited her to record this wonderful interview.Sarah stands for putting people at the heart of the financial services industry. As a leader in technology, she says that a symbiosis between AI and Humans needs to be even better leveraged, without fear!!She is passionate about restoring the image and trust of the financial services industry - not just for the consumers, but also for the individuals working inside the sector.Sarah explains how Change Gap guides their clients through the mountainous terrain of regulation and transformation - which for some might leave them lost halfway between base camp and the summit with a storm coming in! 🏔Challenge, Change, Community ...... get Curious!

I'm grateful to know Janusz Lorenc, and every time I meet him, I learn something.It was such a joy to interview him. Janusz is the epitome of humility and sage wisdom who talked to me about the importance of values, understanding human beings, and the power that “flow” can bring to the financial services industry.Janusz knows the importance of connections, perspectives, making time for decision-making, and the need to slow down to speed up.Fundamentally, Janusz is a man of service, serving his family, his clients, his friends, and his employees.Enjoy every minute of this podcast—a true Shuhari moment (learning, detaching, and mastering) that you can even try while listening to.

Rob Williams is someone I met as a 21-year-old starting out in the asset management industry.In this great podcast, Rob talks about the critical importance of values-based leadership and changing the language in asset management to better connect with consumers.His company, Royal London Asset Management, was originally formed in 1861. Driven by the purpose of serving the community, the values that held true then are still being lived today.True sustainability with purpose and heart I would say!Rob talked about the future of distribution and the challenges that the asset management industry faces, and the leadership skills required to navigate through them in order to help people for another 162 years!

Catherine Battershill  is a profoundly passionate leader who talks about the need to build trust in asset management with the public.As an ex-marketeer, Catherine believes more can be done to re-write the script when it comes to how asset management markets itself.From true board diversity,  how great leaders drive culture, direction, and motivation, they bring leadership skills and the power of self-awareness to boards.If you work in the investment fund industry and sit on a board or aspire to sit on a board this is a must listen. 

Peter Brown cares. He cares about community, collaboration, and the importance of contacts (relationships).He is deeply passionate about harnessing the collective and how financial services can really act as a force for good in the world.He shares wonderful stories about how the power of incrementalism, leadership, and a "one team" approach can harness the power of sustainable performance.If you are curious about how to achieve sustainable performance either personally or for your organisation this is a must listen!!

Steven Van Tuijl is a Leader.Human, Humble and Honest.A man born in the flatlands of the Netherlands, he shares his passion for taking inspiration, energy and perspective from the Swiss Alps. He shares stories of the great Ray Dalio as well as the incredible ability Michael Schumacher had to harness the collective within the team to ensure success. Steven shares his belief that the future of financial services depends on the industry not resisting the future but embracing it.In that vein, Steven invites young leaders to "Listen very closely but challenge everything you hear!"

Kavitha Ramachandran is a legend in the Luxembourg financial services industry.In this podcast, Kavitha shares her story of growing up in Chennai,  coming to Europe and joining the financial services industry.Kavitha embodies a growth mindset. She is deeply curious, authentic, open-minded and prepared to step out of her comfort zone. Courageous and daring are the words that come to mind.Listen to this podcast where Kavitha shares her thoughts on how financial services could benefit from embracing some of the key attributes of Indian music, such as agility, improvisation, & energy.

Micaela Forelli is the first Italian to be interviewed on Flex & the City. As with many Italian greats, she is innovative, kind and visionary. 🇮🇹Micaela talks about the critical importance of continuous innovation in financial services, plus how some of the softer leadership skills such as caring, being inclusive, getting curious, and maintaining a growth mindset create the most effective leaders.She also shares her thoughts on what advice Leonardo Da Vinci would give to financial services if he were alive today.Una bellissima intervista!! 👏

For anyone who has worked in the financial services industry in Luxembourg, you will undoubtedly have heard of, worked for or met the inimitable Chris Edge. Chris shared the importance of doing the right thing and supporting others without fear. Chris talks about the need to take opportunities as they come up and for leaders to embody an "entrepreneurial" spirit and energy.He is the epitome of a growth mindset even though it means stepping out of your comfort zone from time to time (he is even living this now learning French and Cabinet making!)It was crystal clear how passionate Chris is about the future of the Luxembourg fund sector and the need for collective action to make Luxembourg even more attractive for financial services talent.Let's harness this great collective!!!

"Don't allow the regulatory imperative to extinguish agency and the power of people " said Noel Fessey, CEO of European Fund Administration, with enthusiasm and sapient wisdom.I loved interviewing Noel who brings a wealth of knowledge from the military and from history to the financial services industry. He speaks with passion and authority about the way companies can create sustainable performance by enabling individuals to grow and create added value through a culture of agency.A sailor, a mountaineer and a historian - Noel is a true compass that inspires people to advance, grow and flourish.Sage. Wise. Judicious. A must-listen for any leader in current times

Campbell Fleming is a legend in the financial services industry. He is CEO of AssetCo plc and Chairman of The Big Exchange.Anyone who has met Campbell will be touched by the way he makes them feel. Human.From a humble background down under to barrister to financial services game changer. Humility remains firmly at Campbell's heart.❤️Campbell mentions the words client and client satisfaction with a passion that is inspiring, honest, and infectious. He truly believes that the sustainable performance of the industry will be dependent on our ability to engage with clients in a language that all clients will understand and appreciate. In short - straight talk, client focus, be human.

This week on Flex and the City I interview Jurgen Vanhoenacker, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Wealth Structures at Lombard International Assurance.Have you heard about AC/DC and the way in which they managed sustainable performance?  Meet Financial Services' very own lead guitarist and celebrated hard rocker Jurgen Vanhoenacker. There are lots of parallels: Jurgen is charismatically a hard rocker. Tough, kind, supportive, compassionate yet energetic, and unfiltered passion. WSYWIG. The bottom line with Jurgen is he is, like other great rock stars, in service of other human beings. His clients, their stories and needs; his people, their stories and needs and services to greater humanity. It's a gig worth listening to.

This week on Flex and the City I talk with Johnny Black, Head of Commercial & Strategy, Advisor Sector, abrdn Jonny Black is far from Black - he's colourful, sparkly, and energetic which is just what the industry needs. Not afraid to challenge and call things out. Fresh air. Jonny celebrates difference - and the power that difference (we even talked about his dad's dislike of Deliveroo) can have on different generations of investors. What Jonny brings with heart ❤️ and conviction is the need for the industry to connect with the Dreams, wishes, and emotions of their clients. The DREAM factory. Don't we all have dreams?! 

I've heard over the years from a number of sources that Christophe Girondel is a respected leader. Even at the beginning of the podcast recording, Christophe creates a climate of trust. He stands for trust and authenticity. We talked about the Nordic influence on his leadership which I've coined "Hygge" Leadership but we also talked about the powerful influence of remote travel and this powerful perspective that brings a peaceful, groundedness to Christophe's leadership. Sustainable Performance, Authenticity, Agency, and Leader as Coach are words that come to mind. 

This week on Flex and the City we interviewed Denise Thomas who is the COO of abrdn. Authentic isn’t quite a big enough word to describe Denise Thomas. I prefer the acronym WYSIWYG or Down to Earth; Real; Fun. I would work for Denise. I connected with Denise because she’s genuinely interested in people. She is curious about people. Deeply curious. As you may have heard and I have said before curiosity is at the core of being a leader who brings a coaching style to the workplace. It is this curiosity that engenders trust - trust from everyone that works around her and everyone in her sphere of influence. I felt so comfortable in Denise’s company that I even brought in my husband at the end of the podcast to say a big hello as they’ve been brought up in the same area of Edinburgh. 

This week on Flex and the City we interviewed Kunle Olafare who is the CEO of SK Financial. Kunle is part of the new movement of leaders who lead with heart and humanity – In this podcast, he reveals his own personal 5 Ps for achieving growth and success.

This week on Flex and the City I interviewed Karl Harder, the co-founder & Managing Director of Abundance a Financial Services game changer and lifelong environmentalist (before Greta was even born!!!) Karl is a deeply human individual and his lack of ego, profound humility, and straightforward simplicity provokes you into reflecting on the power of money and the purpose behind its accumulation and use. The interesting thing about Karl is that he didn't work in financial services until much later in life when he had previously gained experience working with the inspirational Anita Roddick. If you want to hear a unique perspective on financial services and what that means for our future this is the podcast for you.

This week on Flex and the City I interviewed Laurie Spengler, CEO, Impact Investor and Field Builder. A G7 Task Force Member amongst many other philanthropic endeavours who helps make our world a better place.Laurie cares. Laurie is abundant. Laurie really understand the value of deep relationships.Laurie articulates with conviction and drive  the importance of being in service to people and planet and the critical role that money plays in enabling that. Money has purpose yet is often misused.If you work in the industry and have the slightest interest in sustainability and impact this is the podcast for you.

Pips Bunce is one of the most genuine, humble, kind, perceptive, and passionate leaders I have met. Pips was in touch with my team and they all said she made them feel truly special and valued. ❤️This is a rare quality. True Leadership. In addition to the day job at Credit Suisse, Pips puts an enormous amount of energy and passion into connecting and educating our community at large.Pips is bringing a deep sense of humanity and courage to the financial services industry which we applaud with humility.We need more leaders like Pips to continue to pioneer and push for more inclusive financial services.🙏

This week on Flex and the City I had the very great pleasure to interview the loving, vocal, and driven Tom Baigrie who is the Chair of LifeSearch👇 Tom epitomizes love for his family, for his customers and for his industry. He gives sound advice to any financial services entrepreneur when he says “your purpose should not be on just making money, it has to about the value you bring and what you do for your customers” In Henka terms Tom leads his own tribe with heart, with spirit and hunger/purpose. ❤️Thank you Tom for sharing your views in such a dynamic and inspiring way. 

This week on Flex and the City, we have the privilege to speak to the very kind, encouraging, inspiring Alan Chalmers, who leaves an incredible impression on people whenever he interacts with them.Alan, is the former publisher of Funds Europe and well known in the Financial Services industry with an incredible depth of knowledge about the industry.No wonder Alan is also a formidable entertainer with a love for excellent wine, good food and sharing this with wonderful people. We asked him who the six leaders are in the Financial Services Industry that he would love to entertain and although he did indicate the wine bill might be high he carefully selected these leaders, not only because of their formidable leadership but also their humanity.Welcome to our table: Yves Perrier,  Martin Gilbert, Anne Richards, Dame Elizabeth Corley, Massimo Tosato and Todd Ruppert. Come enjoy our dinner with us on FATC

This week on Flex and the City, we have the privilege to speak to John Beck.  John, is Senior Vice President and Director of Global Fixed Income for Franklin Templeton London, and is our first fixed income expert, who leverages his tremendous knowledge of historical economic events combined with his own forward looking views, in a way that really brings to life his perspectives on how financial services needs to change in order to stay relevant, attract new talent and ensure its own sustainability.John Beck knows the power of the long game… and he’s been in the game for a long time - he’s seen off more than a few crises and the stories he shares are wonderful insights.There is more than a fair bit of wisdom here.  Thank you, John. 🙏 Our vision is to give financial services meaning and purpose through great Leadership.

If you work in financial services and you care for the clients the industry supports and the people it employs you have to listen to this podcast. If you lead in the industry and believe in ethics and morality at your core you have to listen to this podcast.I know you are busy and even a punchy podcast needs a moment. Take that moment. 🙏Andy Agathangelou is the founder of Transparency Task Force. I’ve met plenty of purpose driven people but no one as purpose driven as Andy. His sacrifice and generosity is the world’s gain.I am personally grateful and I know you will be too.Andy speaks with honesty, vulnerability and genuine compassion about the importance of Ethical Leadership in Financial Services and why we need so much more of it. Andy is one of the most influential thought leaders in the global financial services industry today. He brings global leaders together, harnesses their energy and ignites change.