What does your role involve and how does it support financial advisers day-to-day?
As the Principal Representative for Novia Global in Dubai, my role is to act as the local point of contact for advisers across the region. I provide clarity on how to use our infrastructure, help them navigate processes, and ensure communication between Dubai and the wider Novia Global team runs smoothly.I also liaise with the DFSA when required, making sure our Representative Office meets its obligations and operates in line with local expectations. Alongside this, I deliver presentations, attend industry events, and build relationships across the market – all within the liaison and support remit of a Representative Office – to ensure advisers understand who we are, how we operate, and how to work with us effectively.Day to day, it’s about being available, responsive, and maintaining the standards advisers rely on: clear information, efficient coordination, and a consistent presence in the market.
What do you enjoy most about working with advisers?
I enjoy working with advisers who genuinely elevate the industry – the ones who take pride in doing the job properly and professionally. After 13 years in Dubai, I’ve grown alongside many of them. As I’ve progressed, so have they: some now run their own firms, are MDs, or authorised individuals like myself. I value working with people who are collaborative, driven, and focused on doing things the right way.
What’s one thing advisers should know to get the most value out of working with you?
When I started out in the industry in London, I was fortunate to work with a great team of experienced account managers who instilled habits I’ve never moved away from. I learned how to do the job by being around people who were already good at it, and those standards have stayed with me throughout my career. Advisers benefit from the fact that I’ve spent over a decade in the UAE market while maintaining a strong understanding of the UK landscape. I know how both markets think, operate, and differ – and I have a wide network across each. That experience means advisers are working with someone who understands the region, understands the UK, and can help them navigate both confidently.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
Stay measured, stay consistent, and let your standards guide your decisions. It’s a simple principle, but it’s shaped how I approach every role I’ve had. Pressure is part of the job – maintaining perspective and making decisions based on your standards is what sets you apart.
What’s one thing you think will matter more to advisers in the next 12 months?
Everyone expects the answer to be AI – and yes, it will become part of everyday life, the same way email replaced letters and digital tickets replaced paper ones. But the core values of financial services shouldn’t change: helping people have the money they need to live the life they want. Money gives people freedom and spontaneity. Clients need good advisers, advisers need good clients – and Novia needs both.
What attracted you to financial services originally?
I originally planned to pursue a career in law, and shortly after finishing my degree I took a role at Scottish Equitable as sales support to help fund that path. Then I met a man called Ken McDonald, was offered a trainee position at Scottish Widows, and that opportunity set the direction of my career – I never went on to law school.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Working with good people and seeing everything come together. Money can be a difficult topic – and while it’s often just names on a screen to us, it represents someone’s hard work and future. When the job is done properly and everyone is happy, that’s the perfect outcome. Our role is simple: take clients’ money, look after it, and give it back to them. We have a duty to do the right thing.
What motivates you outside of targets and deadlines?
Being happy and healthy. I train every morning before work – it’s the best habit I’ve built. It sets you up for the day and gives you a clear head before you open your laptop or look at your phone.
From a work perspective, my motivation is good outcomes for the end-client. Financial services has had its share of scandals, and it’s often innocent people who lose their hard-earned money. I’ve always believed in operating with integrity – making decisions that protect the client and uphold the standards of the industry.
What’s one thing your colleagues would say you’re known for?
Being reliable, having a clear point of view, and consistently delivering – with strong attention to detail and presentation.
If you weren’t in financial services, what would you be doing?
I’d be a lawyer – most likely in Private Wealth.
What’s one thing you’d like advisers reading this to remember about you?
I’m honest, transparent, and committed to delivering outcomes.
What are the best cities you’ve ever visited?
London – but only when the sun shines.
Dubai – every day of the year, even the summer. It’s a city where things happen.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
Completing my first marathon – which I did in Geneva in May (3 hours 54 minutes, if anyone’s asking) – and continuing to evolve the Novia Global proposition. There’s a huge opportunity in the region, and I’m focused on strengthening our presence, sharpening our message, and building a proposition that genuinely adds value for advisers and delivers meaningful outcomes for clients. Dubai is a city where things happen, and it’s an exciting place to be driving that momentum.
