Citywealth Leaders List, 60 seconds interview – James Quarmby, Stephenson Harwood
This week’s 60-second Citywealth Leaders List interview is dedicated to James Quarmby, Partner at Stephenson Harwood.
Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role.
I’m the founding partner of Stephenson Harwood’s private wealth team. I specialise in international taxation, pensions, trusts and investigations. I’m a frequent commentator in the press, broadcast media and social media on tax policy.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Every day starts with a 3km swim, then toast and tea, before I head off to the office. My days are varied but are often meeting-heavy.
Tell us about some recent, interesting client instructions/requests you have received.
I’m representing two very well-known international sportsmen, who are facing HMRC investigations into their tax affairs. They have entered competitions as employees of personal service companies to be more tax efficient. HMRC is arguing that the arrangement is a sham.
What challenges do your clients face and how are you helping your clients to overcome them?
The Labour government is the biggest challenge. The abolition of the non-dom regime was a monumentally stupid policy, which will lead to significant departures of the wealthier former non-doms. For those that are staying, I am helping them reorganise their affairs.
What is your proudest professional achievement?
I have to admit that getting the better of John Humphrys on R4 Today programme was a stand-out moment.
What do you consider to be the most important attributes for a leader?
Patience and a sense of humour.
Who do you most admire and why?
David Cameron, for legalising gay marriage in the face of fierce opposition from his own MPs. That decision changed my life.
Where was the last place you travelled to for work or pleasure?
Lisbon, for the 3rd Centurions Private Wealth Forum and I very much enjoyed speaking at the Citywealth Forum.
If you weren’t in this industry, what else might you be doing?
Journalism.
How do you relax after a long day?
Mostly just staying at home and watching something from a streaming service. However, every Wednesday evening, without fail, we will have a vodka martini, to celebrate getting over hump day.
If you could recommend one person in the private wealth industry who would it be, and what would you say about them?
I work with a number of highly trusted intermediaries in the world and banking, trusts, investments and accounting. The problem with this question is that who ever I name will be pleased, but the rest may feel slighted, so I’m keeping my own counsel on this one.
Key Takeaways
- This week’s Citywealth Leaders List interview features James Quarmby, founding partner of Stephenson Harwood’s private wealth team.
- Quarmby discusses his expertise in international taxation and represents high-profile clients facing HMRC investigations.
- He highlights challenges from the Labour government’s tax policies and admits to helping clients reorganise their affairs.
- Quarmby considers patience and a sense of humour essential leadership attributes, and he admires David Cameron for legalising gay marriage.
- For relaxation, Quarmby enjoys home streaming and a weekly vodka martini to celebrate hump day.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
James Quarmby’s Citywealth Leaders List profile
Stephenson Harwood’s Citywealth Leaders List profile
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