"I believe, no matter what a business does, it's about people. No people, no business." - Jamie Matheson
In the third episode of Season Two of their successful podcast, Investing for the Long Term, Rosemary Banyard, Manager of the VT Downing Unique Opportunities Fund, and Judith MacKenzie, Head of Downing Fund Managers, reconnect with Jamie Matheson, former Executive Chairman of Brewin Dolphin, whom the pair have known and worked with many times over the course of their careers.
Jamie reflects on his introduction to the financial world, pivotal career moments, and shares key insights about leadership, personal relationships, and the evolution of the financial industry.
Judith and Rosemary provide personal anecdotes of their professional crossroads with Jamie, adding layers to his narrative. The discussion covers significant financial events like the 1987 Big Bang, the importance of personal integrity, and how to balance career aspirations with personal ethics. Jamie also discusses his post-Brewin ventures, including his involvement in fund management boutiques and charitable work.
This episode provides valuable insights into the world of finance and investment, the importance of personal integrity and the value of giving back to the community.
Listen to the podcast episode below
Timestamps:
00:01 Introducing Jamie Matheson
01:40 Judith's early career with Jamie
03:10 Rosemary's connection with Jamie
04:45 Jamie's career beginnings
05:50 Rising through the ranks
10:04 Leadership and personal relationships
11:27 Changes in the financial industry
14:50 Memorable anecdotes
18:07 Challenges and rewards of leadership
21:48 Transition to boutique fund management
23:19 Becoming Chairman of Saracen
25:15 Consolidating boutiques: challenges and strategies
26:13 The importance of people in business
28:09 Navigating the UK market landscape
30:11 Passions beyond business: sailing and yachts
31:27 Involvement with HMS Victory
33:46 Qualities of a good board member
35:31 Reflecting on career achievements
37:25 Advice for the younger generation
38:41 Recommended reads and final thoughts
Downing Fund Managers
Judith founded Downing Fund Managers in 2010, the boutique investment arm of Downing, a distinctive suite of funds and investment solutions that differ from the mainstream.
Rosemary manages the VT Downing Unique Opportunities Fund, a strategy that invests in unique businesses that can achieve above-average returns on capital, based on a sustainable competitive advantage.
Further links and resources:
The Downing Fund Managers reading list
Opinions expressed represent the views of the fund manager at the time of publication, are subject to change, and should not be interpreted as investment advice.
Important notice:
This content is for information only and does not form part of a direct offer or invitation to purchase, subscribe for or dispose of securities and no reliance should be placed on it. This content contains information that is believed to be accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. Whilst care has been taken in compiling this content, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by Downing LLP as to its accuracy or completeness, including for external sources (which may have been used) which have not been verified. Downing is a trading name of Downing LLP. Downing LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference No. 545025).
