Anthony Tait
Partner, Institutional Clients
MA, M Phil, St Andrews, Cambridge
"My job changed from managing the clients money to pitching for new business and liasing with existing clients."
I had an excellent introduction to company analysis by spending my first three years in the European, UK and US investment teams. The job requires an analytical mind, the ability to digest large amounts of information and, from this, the ability to make a coherent investment case for or against a particular company.
Responsibility came quickly when I was given the task of managing a £40m unit trust halfway through my fourth year.
The challenge of running a unit trust is intense. Your performance is easily measured and 'Mr. Market' is a tough competitor; when you beat him it is very rewarding.
After seven years with Baillie Gifford I wanted to have more impact on the direction and growth of the business. To achieve this I moved to our Institutional Clients Department. My job changed from managing the clients' money to pitching for new business and liasing with existing clients. The job is suitable to someone who works well to deadlines, is flexible, quick on their feet and is comfortable presenting publicly.
It is difficult to explain the feeling of accomplishment when you hear you have won £100m of new business. I have no regrets about the move.
