In this episode of Financial Planner Life, Chris Ball, CEO of Hoxton Wealth, interviews David Kneeshaw, Group Chief Executive of International Financial Group Limited (IFGL). With over two decades of experience in financial services and leadership roles, David shares his insights on career development, building resilient teams, and strategies for growth in the international financial landscape.

Career Journey & Leadership Philosophy
David’s path has taken him from Times Newspapers, where he worked with Rupert Murdoch, to becoming a marketing director at Swiss Life and ultimately the CEO of IFGL, managing over £20 billion in assets under advice. He emphasizes the importance of structured, objective decision-making and maintaining a client-centered approach, saying, “If you care about what you do and people see that, they’ll forgive you quite a lot.”

Key Insights on Team Building
David believes in hiring based on attitude and intelligence, underscoring the need for leaders who can communicate and collaborate effectively. His advice to young professionals is to “choose your boss wisely,” as early mentorship profoundly shapes career growth. He’s built his own team on these values, creating a culture where long-term loyalty and growth are prioritized.

Navigating Private Equity & International Growth
David discusses the challenges and rewards of IFGL’s management buyout from Royal London, highlighting the importance of aligning with investors who share the company’s values and vision. He also explores IFGL’s expansion into new regions and the vital role of technology in delivering efficient, client-focused services. According to David, technology is essential in today’s financial services to ensure seamless service and maintain a competitive edge.

This episode is rich with advice for aspiring leaders in financial services, offering lessons in leadership, adaptability, and strategic growth. David’s practical insights on leadership, team-building, and navigating private equity make this a must-listen for those looking to grow in the financial industry.

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