60 second interview: Belinda Ferré, managing director and team head external trusts, UK and Far East, Bank J. Safra Sarasin
In a period marked by political shifts and economic uncertainty, Belinda Ferré offers a steady perspective on the future of British finance. Speaking with Citywealth, she reflects on almost two decades at Bank J Safra Sarasin and shares why client confidence in the United Kingdom remains resilient after the Brexit vote. Her views span the evolution of private client work, the growing importance of trust expertise, and the challenges of modern transparency. With clarity and composure, she brings a global outlook shaped by years spent in both Switzerland and the United States, as well as a commitment to long term relationships and thoughtful leadership.
Tell me about your time at Bank J Safra Sarasin?
I have been with the bank nineteen years and the majority of my team members have been with me anywhere between eight and fifteen years. This stability enables us to work closely with our clients and trustees with a long-term objective.
How has your work changed over the years?
Originally our team’s main focus was private UK and Asian clients, but as many of the clients and families we looked after had trust structures, we added an additional part to the team in 2003. This enabled us to offer a team of experienced staff dedicated to trustees wanting custody in Switzerland. Even the best trust structure can be weakened by a banker who doesn’t truly understand trusts.
Are your clients concerned about Brexit?
Generally our clients have been very calm with the subject of Brexit, remaining confident in the UK’s ability to continue to remain a global financial power.
What other concerns do your clients have?
Clients have become comfortable with transparency, however with the Common Reporting Standard there are a lot of concerns about who will report what to whom, and how in the end this information will be protected from misuse.
What’s the secret to your professional success?
Hard work, tenacity, and always knowing who is better than me in something and going to them for their support and guidance. You can’t rush experience but you can definitely benefit from the wisdom of others
You lived in the US for a long time. What major differences do you see between the US and Switzerland?
In Switzerland we have a global approach to service and investments, whereas the US banks are often more USA investments and US Dollar focused.
Do your clients get involved in philanthropy?
Yes. Philanthropy is also an active part of Swiss culture, so we see many charities, as well as clients preferring sustainable investments.
How do you unwind after a long day?
Homework with my daughter and cooking.
Key Takeaways
- Belinda Ferré reflects on her nineteen years at Bank J Safra Sarasin, highlighting team stability and long-term client relationships.
- She discusses the evolution of private client work and the need for trust expertise amidst modern transparency challenges.
- Clients show confidence in the UK’s financial future post-Brexit, despite concerns around the Common Reporting Standard.
- Ferré values hard work, tenacity, and learning from others as keys to her professional success.
- She notes differences in service approach between Swiss and US banks, and highlights the importance of philanthropy among her clients.
