The Person Behind the Brand

Mike’s track record and accomplishments merit their own space. But the man behind the brand is an approachable people’s person and family man.

Mike was born in Shrewsbury to a dad with a busy career in oil and gas. He attended boarding school in the UK before gaining a taste of the wider world thanks to his father’s overseas job postings. As a child, he lived in Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Jeddah, Doha and Thailand among a string of other destinations – giving him a particularly broad and well-rounded worldview.

He later found himself back in the UK, where he attended Royal Shrewsbury School. Mike’s business acumen was obvious from his school days – where business studies particularly fascinated him. It’s almost cliché, but Monopoly is still his favorite board game – because he says it plays to his two key strengths: strategising and wealth management.

Mike studied at Birmingham University – Manufacturing Engineering and Business Studies.

When taking a few minutes away from a hectic career creating customer-centric success stories, he prefers somewhat more relaxing activities – such as spending time being active and working on his personal development. He likes travelling and is ready to head out to new adventures at the drop of a hat.

The Now

Twenty years ago, he happily returned to the Emirate of Dubai and then returned to the UK in 2015. Back in 2017, Mike returned to Dubai and is now living the Expat life once more.

Mike is forever looking forward to new and exciting opportunities that lay ahead.

Schedule a call with Mike, your financial expert, today.

    My Story

    Reflecting on my twenty years as an expat in Dubai and my childhood spent traversing the globe, I’ve come to understand deeply the financial challenges and opportunities that come with this lifestyle. My experiences have shaped not just my personal life but also my approach to advising fellow expats on their financial journeys. In sharing my story, I hope to illuminate what I believe are the essential qualities and services a financial advisor should offer to truly meet the needs of the global expat community.

    Global Perspective with Local Expertise

    The journey of an expat is marked by transitions, not just geographically but financially. Advisors need to offer a comprehensive range of services, from tax planning in various jurisdictions to estate planning that crosses international borders. My advice is always grounded in a global perspective, enriched by local expertise, ensuring that my clients’ financial plans are both broad in scope and finely tuned to the nuances of each region they touch.

    A Personal and Professional Alignment

    The relationship between an expat and their financial advisor should be based on mutual understanding and trust. I’ve found that the most successful partnerships are those where personal and professional values align. As someone who has lived the expat life, I strive to connect with my clients beyond the balance sheet, sharing insights and advice that resonate with their unique lifestyles and aspirations.

    Experience and Stability in the Market

    Having been through various economic cycles myself, I emphasize the importance of choosing an advisor and a firm with a solid track record and market stability. It’s this depth of experience and the assurance of longevity that gives my clients confidence in their financial strategies, knowing they’re built to withstand the test of time and the unpredictability of life abroad.

    Mike has written a range of FREE guides to advise on a variety of topics

    FREE GUIDES

    Holistic and Actuarial Advice

    My approach to financial advising is holistic, considering every area of an expat’s life. From analyzing risks with an actuarial eye to integrating various financial aspects into a cohesive strategy, I ensure that every recommendation I make serves not just immediate goals but the long-term well-being of my clients and their families.

    Representation and Accountability

    As expats, having an advisor who represents our interests and holds us accountable to our financial goals is invaluable. I see myself as more than an advisor to my clients; I am their advocate, challenging them with new perspectives and ensuring their financial plans remain aligned with their evolving lives.

    Future-Proofing Financial Plans

    The transient nature of expat life demands financial plans that are as flexible as they are robust. I focus on creating strategies that not only address current financial needs but are also adaptable to future changes, whether it’s a new country, a career shift, or transitioning into retirement.

    Adding Value Beyond Investments

    True value in financial advising goes beyond portfolio management. It’s about empowering clients with knowledge, guiding them through decisions on savings strategies, debt management, and insurance planning, ensuring that every piece of advice adds to their financial security and independence.

    Transparent and Open Communication

    Transparency is the cornerstone of trust. I am committed to open, honest communication with my clients, ensuring they understand every aspect of their financial plan, from the rationale behind investments to the structure of fees. This transparency fosters a partnership based on trust, respect, and mutual success.

    In sharing my story and approach, my hope is to offer fellow expats a blueprint for what to look for in a financial advisor. It’s about finding someone who not only has the technical expertise but who understands the expat experience, someone who can guide you through the complexities of international finance with empathy, insight, and a commitment to your long-term success. This, I believe, is the key to not just surviving but thriving in our global lives.