Matthew Spencer

How do you describe what you do?

As Head of Intermediaries, I lead our interaction with IFAs, a key component of our growth strategy.

What's next for you professionally?

After more than forty years working in financial services, my main driver is to share that experience with the business to create better outcomes for clients, employees, and the organisation.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

I was always the kid who disappointed - super clever, with a memory like a steel trap, but couldn’t pass exams. In the sixth form, my year tutor suggested that I leave school and start work, and by the time my cohort left university, I’d be ahead. He was right.

What's an experience with a client that's stuck with you?

My formative years on the stock market floor - building relationships to get things done.

How did you start off in your career?

As a messenger, then junior dealer, senior dealer, head dealer - all before I was 21.

What's your area of expertise?

I've grown businesses for others - Jupiter, Credit Suisse, Coutts, Deutsche Bank, Close and now Evelyn. But I also built a very successful wealth management business of my own which was sold in 1998.

Where do you get your inspiration to embrace what's next?

Observation matters. I like people watching, I learn and I'm inspired to do more, better, different.

What's your favourite thing about your role?

The relationships I've built over the last 40 years, and most importantly the privilege of managing people and playing a part in their growth.

What's next for you personally?

Working my way back up the performance ladder for the GB shooting team.

Do you have a significant experience that your clients would want to hear about?

Building businesses, growth and how to achieve it through constructive relationships with intermediaries.

Where's your favourite place to meet with your clients?

The Delauney in 'mid town'. Fabulous service - a really great customer experience.

When you're not at work, what's your favourite thing to do?

I love shooting and drinking superb red wine - not at the same time. I've never shot anything that was alive, and never would but I am rather good at shooting clay pigeons.