60 seconds interview with Louise Bracken-Smith
Louise Bracken Smith of the Fairway Group talks to Citywealth in our 60 second interview slot about Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance and being a MoMe.
Tell me about your role at Fairway Group?
I am co-founder of the Fairway Group with Alistair Rothwell, becoming the Managing Director in 2012, then CEO in 2017. I am also a Director of Bracken-Rothwell, our sister accountant firm.
How has the private client industry changed?
There are fewer, larger clients all of whom expect instant access to our teams. The clients are more global with their business affairs but are accepting of the new, global regulatory regimes and need for reporting,
What lesson have you learnt?
To work with like-minded people and clients. To build a good team to drive the business forward. Invest in the businesses, people’s development and to take calculated risks. To make difficult decisions and to ensure that people share the company vision.
Tell us about interesting client instructions.
We have become ‘Manager of Managed Entities’ (MoMe) to the first regulated Bitcoin manager in Jersey, which is very exciting.
What challenges do your clients face?
We live in a time of geopolitical change and the pace at which it is is reported is now instantaneous. What this means is that it is now essential to partner with an experienced governance team who understand family and business requirements.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Get things done straight away, otherwise your ‘to do’ list can grow. Also managing people’s expectations.
What was the last book you’ve read?
I’ve been listening to the audiobook of Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson. I am fascinated to know what it takes for people to push their bodies beyond their limits. For us sport and business are closely aligned they both require focus, determination and perseverance.
How do you relax after a long day?
Watching my children doing sport or training in the sea, cycling or running if I can squeeze it in around my busy schedule.