Q&A: Gary Palmer, Chief Executive of the Irish Funds Industry Association
1. How long have you been working in financial services?
Over twenty years and more than 12 years as Chief Executive of the IFIA, the Irish Funds Industry Association.
2. Has your career path been conventional or capricious?
I guess quite conventional but lucky; where I have been very fortunate to have been offered excellent opportunities at various stages of my career. Following graduation from University I spent a number of years as a lecturer before joining theInstituteofBankersand in 1999 I became the Chief Executive of the funds industry association.
3. What matters most: talent or hard work?
Both are very important. As the Financial Services industry generally, and the fund industry specifically, are constantly developing and evolving both talent and hard work will lead to success.
4. What would you always advise people to do before they step into an interview with you?
Want the job, do the research and be prepared. Know, and show you know, about the role, the company and the industry sector. Sell yourself, show why the job is you!
5. What do you know now about working in banking that you wish you’d known 15 years ago?
So much. However, with the knowledge I had then, I did recognise the ambition and potential of the developing funds industry in Ireland and the enthusiasm and energy of those working in it.
6. You are only allowed to hire one person over the next six months. Can you describe their ideal profile?
An ambitious, enthusiastic and energetic person with the ability and desire to learn and succeed.
7. In no more than three sentences, can you say what your business area will look like in 2015?
As a global leading jurisdiction for internationally distributed investment funds, Ireland will continue to develop and offer product solutions, operating efficiencies and distribution opportunities to the international industry.
8. I want to work for you. What will persuade you to hire me?
The enthusiasm and energy I previously mentioned together with the ability to learn and the ambition to succeed.
