It’s time to put my hard hat back on and help build something…

For nearly 13 years I took part in an incredible asset management and ETF business story.  We built new growth businesses and remarkable teams across Europe and the Asia Pacific. 

I’ve learnt, been inspired, worked with some amazing people. Always thankful for the incredible support from colleagues, clients, and partners.  What I’m most proud of is the teams and careers I have helped support and build.  And of course, it was a great thrill to help launch and fund the three largest ETFs in the world.  Now, it is time for a new challenge. I am excited to start the next chapter.  More on this later. 

Hard hat on, ready to build…  Exactly four years ago, I arrived in Nepal together with 40 others to help reconstruct one of the 8,000 schools destroyed in a devastating earthquake. Although we got pretty good at mixing cement, our biggest contribution was probably the money we raised to re-build many more schools.  With education comes independence, growth, and hope.  Stay with me…

Sneakers on, ready to run…  Trekking through Nepal in 1998 inspired John Wood to leave his Microsoft job and set up Room to Read.  Supporting children’s literacy and girls’ education became his new mission. I had the pleasure of meeting John some years ago. What he has built, touches millions of people with lasting impact. 

So, when I run the half marathon on Sunday through the jungle temples of Angkor Wat (yes, Tomb Rider was filmed close to here), I wanted to make a small contribution to the local community by supporting the re-build of Cambodia’s education system.  Room to Read is helping this effort. I have already contributed US$100 for each kilometer I run or US$2,100 since I assume I will finish! That’s enough to help 30 children learn to read and write for a full year or buy thousands of books.  A small contribution goes a long way.

Big thank you.  Onwards!