Having gained a BSc from Durham University, and an LLB from Nottingham, I subsequently qualified as a solicitor in London. However, I quickly realized that the law was not for me. I wanted to be closer to the action. So in 2-1- I applied for the Jardine Executive Trainee Scheme and after going through a rigorous selection process, was accepted onto the programme.
My career began in Gammon, the construction arm of Jardines. With no engineering background, it proved to be a steep learning curve. But it quickly gave me exposure to budgeting, financial controls and risk management, which were later to prove invaluable. At my own request, I was then posted to the insurance arm, Jardine Lloyd Thompson, in Hong Kong. It was during this period I completed the CIMA qualification, which is essentially like an MBA that majors in finance.
Needless to say, it has significantly strengthened both my financial and general commercial skills. Today I am working in Indonesia as President Director of two newly acquired JLT businesses. My career to date has been diversified, challenging, but most of all, fascinating. Based on what I have seen so far, I’m confident this will continue.