The CIO Chair

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The CIO Chair: How Chief Investment Officers think, decide, and lead Ever wondered what really drives the top CIOs?  Sean Thompson and Hartej Singh introduce to you - The CIO Chair, a podcast diving into the strategies, leadership styles and decision-making approaches of today’s leading chief investment officers. Whether you're shaping your own path or leading an investment team today, this series offers real insights of the minds and career's of leaders in investment. A collaboration between the cio investment club and Pension Insurance Corporation Hosted by: Sean Thompson, cio investment club Hartej Singh, Pension Insurance Corporation 

  1. 1d ago

    14. Part 1 - The Long View – Saker Nusseibeh, CEO, Federated Hermes on Capital, Conviction and the Future of Investing

    In part one of this conversation on The CIO Chair, we speak with Saker Nusseibeh, CEO of Federated Hermes Limited, about his unconventional journey into investment management, the principles that have shaped his career, and why the industry needs to rediscover a long-term perspective. With a PhD in medieval history, Saker entered finance almost by accident. He reflects on how his academic background taught him humility, encouraged him to question conventional wisdom, and gave him a historical perspective on market trends, technological change and investment bubbles. He also discusses how the industry has evolved, arguing that while diversity has improved, diversity of thought remains an important challenge. In part 1 we cover-  Saker Nusseibeh’s unconventional journey from medieval history to investment managementHow studying history brings humility, critical thinking and a long-term perspective to investingThe evolution of the investment industry, from its traditional lack of diversity to the need for greater diversity of thoughtThe origins of Federated Hermes and the principles behind its investment philosophyHow responsible investing and positive community impact can contribute to long-term financial returns, with the King's Cross redevelopment as an exampleThe Federated Hermes pledge and its commitment to ethical behaviour, client interests and environmental responsibilityThe differences between the roles of a CIO and a CEO, and the importance of identifying and supporting investment talentWhy long-term investing differs from short-term tradingThe challenges created by short-term performance measurement and increasingly fragmented investment portfoliosHow geopolitical change and diverging global markets are reshaping investment opportunities and the skills asset managers needWe have more insights from Saker Nusseibeh in part 2, coming soon. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    14. Part 1 - The Long View – Saker Nusseibeh, CEO, Federated Hermes on Capital, Conviction and the Future of Investing

  2. Sep 9

    13. Andy Chorlton, CIO, Fixed Income at M&G Investments: Leading and Investing Through Uncertainty

    What does it take to lead one of the world's largest fixed income businesses - and how should investors navigate markets when uncertainty has become the norm? In this episode of The CIO Chair, Andy Chorlton, Chief Investment Officer of Fixed Income at M&G Investments, joins us to discuss his career, investment philosophy and approach to leading a global fixed income business. Andy shares his journey into investment management, from studying economics and Spanish to securing his first internship after facing multiple rejections. What began as a rotation through fixed income eventually became a career spanning more than 25 years, including roles at Citigroup, AXA Investment Managers, Schroders and now M&G. The conversation explores what Andy believes are the three key responsibilities of a CIO: representing the interests of clients, growing the business and creating an environment where investment professionals have the resources and support they need to perform at their best. A major theme of the episode is investment philosophy and consistency. Andy explains why having a clear set of investment beliefs is particularly important during periods of market stress. Andy also discusses M&G's value-oriented approach to fixed income, the importance of genuine diversification and why understanding how different investment managers behave can matter just as much as the number of managers in a portfolio. The conversation also looks to the future, including the opportunities and risks presented by AI in investment research. Andy shares why he sees technology as a way to make analysts more efficient- giving them more time to think, challenge conclusions and make better investment recommendations - rather than replacing human judgement altogether. Finally, Andy reflects on leadership, team culture and the advice he would give to the next generation of investors. From making the most of internships to taking risks and building a broad range of experience, his message is clear: work hard, stay open-minded and don't feel pressured to have your entire career mapped out too early.  https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    13. Andy Chorlton, CIO, Fixed Income at M&G Investments: Leading and Investing Through Uncertainty

  3. Aug 28

    12. Jeremy Rogers, CIO,  Better Society Capital - Investing for Impact Without Losing Sight of Returns

    In this episode of The CIO Chair Podcast, we speak with Jeremy Rogers, Chief Investment Officer at Better Society Capital, about the evolution of impact investing and the role investment can play in tackling some of the UK's most pressing social and environmental challenges. Jeremy brings a particularly interesting perspective to the conversation, having worked across both the financial and social sectors, including a senior role at JP Morgan, Big Issue Invest and The Prince's Trust. At Better Society Capital, he has spent more than a decade investing in and helping to develop the UK's social impact investment market. Jeremy shares his perspective on how financial returns and positive social outcomes can work together, rather than treating impact as something separate from investment decision-making. He also reflects on his experience helping to develop the UK's social impact investment market and the importance of experimentation, collaboration and looking beyond traditional investment frameworks. The conversation explores impact investing, systemic change, social investment and investment opportunities, as well as the challenges of measuring impact and identifying where capital can genuinely make a difference. Finally, Jeremy reflects on what he's learned during his time at Better Society Capital, what he's most proud of and his advice for people beginning their careers in investment. His message is simple: rather than trying to predict exactly where the industry is heading, find an environment with a steep learning curve, a strong culture and opportunities to deliver good ideas. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    12. Jeremy Rogers, CIO,  Better Society Capital - Investing for Impact Without Losing Sight of Returns

  4. Jul 10

    11. Black Swans, Natural Capital and Leadership with David Thompson, CIO at Zurich Insurance

    David Thompson, Chief Investment Officer at Zurich Insurance Company Limited, joins us to discuss a career spanning investment banking, asset management and insurance investing. From writing 52 letters to land his first role at Lehman Brothers to leading one of the UK's major insurance investment portfolios, David shares the lessons that have shaped his investment philosophy and leadership style. The conversation explores how insurers balance long-term liabilities, why diversification matters more than predicting "black swan" events, and why Zurich has committed capital to UK natural capital through woodland creation, peatland restoration and biodiversity projects. David also discusses responsible investing, manager selection, developing high-performing teams and the importance of curiosity as a career advantage. Key topics coveredDavid's journey from Lehman Brothers to CIO at ZurichWhy he wrote 52 letters to secure his first role in financeHow trading, asset management and asset ownership each shaped his perspectiveManaging life, P&C and policyholder portfolios within an insurance businessStrategic asset allocation and working with external managersWhy Zurich invested in UK natural capital and biodiversityThe investment case for woodland creation and peatland restorationResponsible investing: what works and where the industry still falls shortPreparing portfolios for uncertainty rather than predicting market shocksBuilding cognitively diverse investment teamsRadical candour, Ikigai and developing future leadersWhy curiosity may be the most valuable skill in financeDavid's thoughts on the future of the UK investment marketMemorable quotes"You never stop learning in finance.""The best thing to do is to have a portfolio that's ready when uncertainty arrives.""The only lasting impact you have in financial services is the impact you have on other people.""Curiosity is just as important as IQ and EQ."Books and recommendations mentionedBirdsongAny Human HeartThe Black SwanBlinkWho Moved My Cheese?Quick FireFavourite sport: CricketFavourite TV drama: Peaky BlindersFavourite films: E.T., Oliver!, Ben-Hur, The Sound of MusicFavourite drink: White BurgundyFavourite hobby: ActingLeadership philosophy: Radical candour and IkigaiCareer advice: Stay curious and never stop learning. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    11. Black Swans, Natural Capital and Leadership with David Thompson, CIO at Zurich Insurance

  5. Jun 24

    10. Will Nicoll, CIO, RLAM on why trust, transparency, and disciplined decision-making define the modern CIO

    In this episode of The CIO Chair Podcast, we sit down with Will Nicoll, chief investment officer at Royal London Asset Management, for a wide-ranging conversation on investment leadership, team building, and navigating uncertainty in today's markets. Drawing on decades of experience across asset management and institutional investing, Will shares why trust is the foundation of every successful investment organisation. He explains how CIOs can build high-performing teams, encourage constructive disagreement, and create an environment where people are motivated by purpose rather than hierarchy. His approach to leadership is rooted in transparency, honesty, and putting clients' interests first. The conversation also explores some of the most challenging moments of Will's career, including lessons learned during the Global Financial Crisis, the dangers of making decisions based on what feels "normal," and why patience is often one of the most underrated skills in investing. Will discusses the opportunities and challenges facing UK investors, the role of infrastructure in supporting economic growth, and how long-term investors should think about market cycles and portfolio resilience. Alongside his investment insights, Will offers thoughtful reflections on hiring, career development, and the importance of helping people find roles where they can thrive. His leadership philosophy is refreshingly simple: great teams are built on trust, great advice is clear and unbiased, and successful organisations are those that continue serving their clients long after today's leaders have moved on. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    10. Will Nicoll, CIO, RLAM on why trust, transparency, and disciplined decision-making define the modern CIO

  6. May 29

    09. How to Navigate Risk, Change, and Uncertainty with Siddharth Chakravarty, Vice President of Investments, Coaction Global

    In this episode of The CIO Chair Podcast, we sit down with Siddharth Chakravarty, Vice President of Investments at Coaction Global. We explore the realities of modern investment leadership and the evolving responsibilities of today’s chief investment officer. The conversation covers how CIO's make decisions in uncertain markets, balance long-term strategy with short-term pressures, and build investment frameworks that can withstand volatility and structural change. We also discuss governance, risk management, portfolio construction, and the human side of leadership inside institutional investing. Throughout the episode, Siddharth brings a measured, analytical perspective to complex investment questions, while also showing a natural curiosity and openness that reflects how he approaches leadership and learning. Rather than relying on rigid market narratives, Siddharth emphasises adaptability, long-term thinking, and the importance of staying intellectually honest when conditions change. Siddharth reflects on his career journey, the lessons learned from navigating complex market cycles, and the mindset required to lead investment teams effectively in today’s environment. We also explore the future of investing, including how technology, private markets, sustainability, and changing client expectations are reshaping the CIO role. Whether you’re a chief investment officer, institutional investor, pension professional, or aspiring investment leader, this episode offers practical insights into how the industry is evolving, and what great investment leadership looks like in practice.  Enjoy! And please consider leaving us a review/rating on your podcast platform of choice. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    09. How to Navigate Risk, Change, and Uncertainty with Siddharth Chakravarty, Vice President of Investments, Coaction Global

  7. May 7

    08. The Rise of DC: How the Pensions CIO Role Is Changing with Veronica Humble, CIO, Cushon.

    In this episode of The CIO Chair Podcast, we speak with Veronica Humble, Chief Investment Officer at Cushon, about how the role of the CIO is evolving in the world of defined contribution (DC) pensions. As more individuals take responsibility for their retirement outcomes, CIOs must rethink how investment strategies are designed, communicated, and delivered at scale. Veronica shares how Cushon is approaching this challenge by focusing on member engagement, simplicity, and long-term value creation. With a background in quantitative investing and portfolio construction, Veronica brings a data-driven perspective to pension design, combining rigorous analysis with a strong focus on real-world member outcomes. She explains why traditional pension structures often fail to connect with savers, and how integrating ESG principles, private markets, and default fund design can help deliver better retirement outcomes.  We explore the importance of digital experience, behavioural insights, and creating investment journeys that members can actually understand and engage with. For chief investment officers, pension professionals, and institutional investors, this episode offers practical insight into how investment leadership is adapting to meet the needs of today’s savers, and what the future of DC pension investing could look like. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    08. The Rise of DC: How the Pensions CIO Role Is Changing with Veronica Humble, CIO, Cushon.

  8. Mar 18

    07. Inside Lloyd’s: Guillermo Donadini on Risk, Capital and Leadership

    Guillermo Donadini joins Sean Thompson and Hartej Singh to discuss how investment strategy supports the Lloyd’s insurance market. As CIO of the Corporation of Lloyd’s, Guillermo manages the central fund while overseeing investment risk across the broader marketplace. Guillermo begins by reflecting on his early exposure to economics growing up in Argentina, where economic instability made financial understanding a part of everyday life. His career path, from research roles to global CIO positions at AIG and eventually Lloyd’s, was shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a belief in being “part of the solution.” He explains how the Lloyd’s model differs from traditional insurance companies. Instead of operating as a single insurer, Lloyd’s functions as a marketplace where multiple syndicates share complex risks. The central fund acts as a financial backstop, making its investment strategy critical to maintaining market confidence. The episode explores how Guillermo approaches asset allocation, risk appetite, and portfolio resilience. He discusses how liquidity stress testing and scenario analysis help ensure that assets remain available when claims arise, even during extreme market events. Guillermo also reflects on lessons from earlier crises, including Argentina’s sovereign default, and how those experiences shaped his approach to risk management. He emphasises the importance of preparation, contingency planning, and disciplined processes. Beyond investing, Guillermo shares insights on leadership, mentorship, and personal purpose. For him, the ultimate measure of success is not only strong portfolios but also developing the next generation of investment leaders. https://www.cioinvestmentclub.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cio-investment-club/posts/?feedView=all

    07. Inside Lloyd’s: Guillermo Donadini on Risk, Capital and Leadership
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The CIO Chair: How Chief Investment Officers think, decide, and lead Ever wondered what really drives the top CIOs?  Sean Thompson and Hartej Singh introduce to you - The CIO Chair, a podcast diving into the strategies, leadership styles and decision-making approaches of today’s leading chief investment officers. Whether you're shaping your own path or leading an investment team today, this series offers real insights of the minds and career's of leaders in investment. A collaboration between the cio investment club and Pension Insurance Corporation Hosted by: Sean Thompson, cio investment club Hartej Singh, Pension Insurance Corporation 

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  • Creator
    cio investment club
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The CIO Chair
  • Show Website
    The CIO Chair