I was attracted to investment management for its mix of problem solving and real-world impact. The industry offers constant intellectual challenge and a continuous learning curve, making every day different. I worked as an investment analyst in London and Dublin, advising major asset managers on investment selection and supporting private companies as they listed on the public markets. I then transitioned into institutional fund management, where I have continued to develop my experience in portfolio management and investment decision-making.

What I’ve always particularly enjoyed is working closely with clients to help them achieve their financial objectives, which gives the role a real sense of purpose. That focus carries through directly to my role today as Chief Investment Officer at CFIL, where I oversee the firm’s discretionary and advisory investment activities.

2. You grew up in Tipperary. How did where you come from shape your path into finance?

I grew up in Tipperary, where straight talking, hard work and hurling prowess are highly valued. Unfortunately, my talents lie more in analysing the game than playing it. A desire to understand why things happen, rather than simply observing the result, led me to intern with a Chief Economist, where I became fascinated by the connection between economic developments and financial markets. The experience sparked a lasting passion for investing, leading me to study the writings of renowned investors such as Warren Buffett and Nick Sleep. Keen to build on that interest, I pursued a range of professional qualifications, including the CFA designation, which helped shape my investment philosophy and develop the analytical framework that has guided my career in asset management.

3. You run our discretionary management service. What is it and what’s different about it?

At its core, discretionary management means that we make investment decisions on behalf of clients, within an agreed mandate and risk framework, rather than seeking approval for every transaction. That gives us the flexibility to act quickly when markets move and to manage portfolios in a consistent, disciplined way across our client base.

What sets our discretionary service apart is the combination of global investment expertise and a highly personalised approach. Portfolios are managed through segregated accounts, meaning clients directly own individual securities rather than units in a pooled fund. This structure can offer greater transparency and potential tax benefits, while allowing us to match investment strategies to each client’s objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance. Clients also benefit from dedicated relationship management, proactive communication and regular engagement with the experienced Dublin-based team overseeing their assets.

4. What are the key risks and opportunities investors should be focused on over the next 12-18 months?

Investors should benefit from a broadly supportive backdrop, with resilient economic growth, healthy corporate earnings and markets underpinned by strong liquidity. AI should continue to be a powerful structural driver, supporting productivity gains and earnings growth well beyond the technology sector. At the same time, the substantial capital investment required to upgrade infrastructure, strengthen energy security and advance the global decarbonisation agenda should create attractive opportunities across a range of sectors and asset classes.

That said, with valuations appearing stretched in pockets of the market and the geopolitical environment remaining unpredictable, maintaining a well-diversified portfolio and applying a disciplined active investment approach will be essential to navigating risks while identifying attractive opportunities over the coming 12-18 months.

5. What lessons would you share about maintaining a disciplined investment approach during periods of market uncertainty?

Periods of market volatility can feel uncomfortable in the moment, but they are a natural part of investing and, in many ways, represent the price paid for access to the higher long-term returns on offer from financial markets. The key is to stay disciplined and remain anchored to a strategic asset allocation that is capable of meeting your long-term return objectives and spending needs after the consideration of inflation.

6. After two decades in the industry, what’s changed most about how you think about markets, and what hasn’t?

Over two decades, I’ve learned that market efficiency exists on a spectrum. Some markets are highly efficient, with information reflected in prices almost instantly, making it difficult to gain an edge. Other areas receive less attention, are more complex, or are shaped by short-term investor behaviour, creating opportunities for patient investors. Our job is to understand the difference and focus where insight and discipline can still add value. What hasn’t changed is my belief that successful investing requires patience, discipline and a long-term perspective. Markets change; human behaviour generally doesn’t.

7. How do you maintain balance outside of work?

Outside work, family keeps me grounded and busy. Much of my free time is spent chasing my daughter around playgrounds, which is a humbling experience for someone who was never blessed with much speed. I also enjoy gardening, although “enjoy” may be stretching it. Despite repeated attempts, my plants have an uncanny ability to “underperform” even in conditions that any competent gardener would describe as ideal.