Michael Slater, head of Northern Trust in the Middle East
Previous company and job title: I have worked at Northern Trust for 13 years, 11 of those in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Prior to that, I spent time at HSBC, Deutsche Bank and Bankers Trust.
Years in the region: I am entering my 22nd year.
What do you consider to be your home town? Although I was born in Lapeer, Michigan. I’ve lived in Tennessee, New York, Scotland, London, Switzerland, Abu Dhabi and now Riyadh. If I had to choose, I would say Riyadh and Naples, Florida.
Educational background: A BSc in finance/economics from Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
First job in the industry: As a pensions fund call centre operator at Bankers Trust.
What is the toughest challenge you’ve faced in your professional life? Client engagement has by far been my most rewarding challenge. As the market and industry continues to change, the demands exerted by clients do as well.
What achievement are you most proud of? Opening Northern Trust’s offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh.
What advice would you give to someone who is beginning their career in the funds industry? First, if provided with an opportunity to work overseas, take it. Secondly, make qualified and informed decisions, but know when to press ahead or drive further discussion and engagement.
If you could change one thing about the funds industry, what would it be? I would like to see continued evolution in technology and drive for automation.
What is your greatest ambition? To provide my children with the right resources to be successful, good and honest.
Best investment you’ve made? My wife Samantha makes me better each day. I owe my success to her.
Tell us something about you that most people don’t know: I am an introvert. Whilst I love people, at the end of the day I look forward to some quiet time.
Favourite country to visit? Italy (where Samantha and I took our first holiday) and Belize (because this was our first holiday together as husband and wife).
Favourite type of food? Everything – I’m a lover of all foods.
Favourite book or film? The James Bond books and movies.
Your house is burning. Your family is safe. You have time to rescue one object. What would it be and why? My dogs, Spirit and Prince, are part of my family. Nothing else matters.
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