Rathbones | Investec Combination
As the central point of contact for the Investec Wealth UK Research department during the integration, I led efforts to ensure the strategic and operational readiness of the Research function through the complex platform and data migration involving £40bn+ AUM and over 60,000+ clients.
My remit spanned Suitability, Risk, Performance and Data Analytics, with a focus on safeguarding data integrity and continuity across systems. Working cross-functionally with Data and Technology teams, I supported the surfacing, mapping, and reconciliation of critical datasets — including holdings, benchmarks, classifications, and suitability profiles. I also helped shape the development of strategic datasets to enable fit-for-purpose MI and Reporting in the combined entity.
Case Studies
Data-Driven Research Impact
In my role within the Research department, I led the development of a data strategy that brought greater structure, visibility, and usability to our processes and data assets. I began by centralising requirements across research and engaging with I.T. This created a single point of coordination and laid the foundation for clearer metrics, KPIs, and executive reporting.
Collaborating closely with functions including Finance, Operations and Change, I was also able to undertake a Product Owner role to ensure alignment with wider business needs. A key outcome was the delivery of self-serve dashboards and data pipelines, improving access to insights for committees and enhancing the quality of M.I. and Board reporting.
Equitable Career Pathways
In a Fireside discussion at the IAmBlack Conference, I introduced my Progression Framework to show how equitable career pathways depend on access to four interconnected pillars: Training, Development, Opportunities, and Exposure. This is a framework I not only use when regularly conducting performance reviews and progression discussions with direct reports, but also apply day-to-day in a practical setting to ensure that people are upskilling and getting to where they want to get to.
Each layer builds on the last, where inequality often increases higher up the pyramid if access isn’t intentional. While many organisations offer training, fewer ensure fair access to development or visible opportunities. The framework highlights and helps pinpoint focus areas for people to actively manage how talent progresses — not just getting their foot through the door.
Establishing a Market Data Function
At Ruffer, I established a centralised market data function from the ground up, embedding a structured oversight process that aligned strategic data requirements with operational, regulatory, and commercial drivers. I implemented a clear intake and governance model for all market data requests, consolidating disjointed vendor engagement into a single, transparent workflow.
By coordinating efforts across technology, legal, and finance, I ensured appropriate vendor selection, contract alignment, and licensing compliance. This not only improved data ownership and accountability but also enabled more effective vendor negotiations and delivered measurable cost savings to the business.
Put Insights into Action
These case studies give an insight into how thoughtful strategy and operational design can help drive meaningful outcomes and unlock long-term value.
To help you apply similar approaches in your own context, I’ve developed a set of downloadable resources — shaped by hands-on operational experience across stages of scale, change, and complexity, with a focus on both people and function.
Download the tools below to explore:
Approaches to building scalable and resilient operating models
Considerations for streamlining and adapting operational processes
Ways to evolve governance structures as teams expand and complexity increases