Q&A with Investment and Financial Services Logistics founder, Ross Bernays
Former CEO of HIP, Ross Bernays, has launched a funds management servicing company as he believes "that there are a good deal of quality investment opportunities that just don't see the light of day in Australia." Read more about his vision for the company and why a love of rugby was the reason he originally fell into the financial services industry.
Former CEO of HIP, Ross Bernays, has launched a funds management servicing company as he believes "that there are a good deal of quality investment opportunities that just don't see the light of day in Australia." Read more about his vision for the company and why a love of rugby was the reason he originally fell into the financial services industry.
What is your vision for Investment and Financial Services Logistics?
I have for some time harboured the view that there are a good deal of quality investment opportunities that just don't see the light of day in Australia. Coupled with that is the pretty much universal desire to truly mitigate correlations with the volatility of traditional markets in portfolio construction.
I have a great deal of respect for the asset consultant group that supports Australian institutional investors but I believe that there are some great opportunities that for one reason or another don't achieve appropriate exposure. Simply, this may be because the manager does not know how to interact with analysis process or, internationally, the tyranny of distance has been allowed to be a major encumbrance on putting the effort into producing quality connections and presentations.
I am looking to use my experience and networks to assist in bringing both sides of the equation together through a number of vehicles and processes.
What skill do you think is paramount in working in the financial services industry?
From an investment point of view, finding the right portfolio combination to suit the risk profile and long-term needs of your constituency and demographic. Same for services; making sure that you are looking for what the member/client wants.
Would you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert? And why?
Hard question - I think in a way I am a bit arrogant in thinking that I don't have to push myself forward because people either like me or not. I have never really been good at self-promotion.
What was your very first job?
Straight out of school to the State Superannuation Fund. The Public Service placement officer went to the same school as me and had seen me play rugby (union) at school - he thought that was the best job he had on offer.
Is there a particular charity or cause that you support?
I have been heavily involved in rugby union; as player for a long time, as well as coaching, administering and refereeing.
Over recent years I have become quite fond of the the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and Phil Kearns's [Humpty Dumpty] Balmoral Burn. Although, I have retired from running up the hill since my hip replacement.
The Humpty Dumpty Foundation provides much needed equipment for hospital across Australia and close neighbours. Simply saving kids lives with often the most basic of equipment.
