The War For Investment Talent – A Game Changer In SA

The ability to attract and retain talented investment professionals will be a real competitive advantage.

- Duane Cable

The local asset management industry has experienced a growing number of emigrations and retirements recently and clients are understandably concerned about who will be managing their hard-earned savings in the future. In my opinion, the war for talent will likely accelerate in the years ahead and thus the ability to attract and retain talented investment professionals will be a real competitive advantage.

Ninety-One is in a fortunate position, being a globally integrated business, which provides its staff with global career development opportunities without the need to emigrate where that emigration is based purely on a lack of local career development opportunities.

Clyde Rossouw, who co-heads our Quality capability, is resident in Cape Town, yet manages a market-leading global equity fund, the Ninety One Global Franchise Fund. Similarly, Charlie Dutton successfully manages Asian equities from Cape Town, having spent much of his life to date in London and Singapore.

Their uncommon perspectives and experience are prized by colleagues. A vastly enriched work environment is the result, including for those just starting in their careers, who would otherwise have to wait years for such exposure. Most importantly, the overall quality of investment debate and decision-making is improved, which ultimately benefits clients.

People – our biggest asset