What inspired you to join AB and Bernstein?
I always liked capital markets, so I initially migrated from corporate finance to consulting for asset and wealth managers. Though I enjoyed it, after 20 years I had an itch to go from recommending to practicing—from being an advisor to an operator. I’m relentlessly impact driven and was excited by the prospect of having more control over my impact. While exploring my options, AB stood out for several reasons. AB was known on the street for its great culture, both in terms of humility and collaboration, but also its deep passion for turning insights into great outcomes. It’s one thing to have a research edge, but how does that translate into improving clients’ lives? Then there was the breadth of capabilities. I was impressed by both the quality of the investment platform and the caliber of advice. Finally, I have always liked businesses with a personal touch—especially those with the global resources to be competitive and deliver that “high-touch” at scale. You see that in spades at Bernstein. We can be very bespoke when it comes to the complex needs of our clients while having the backing of a large asset management platform from a scale and balance sheet standpoint.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your role?
The scope for impact. In other words, since I touch different aspects of the end-to-end client experience, my ability to shape that interaction is huge. I also like the client-facing nature of my role; it makes it more dynamic. It’s deeply rewarding to see the direct impact we have on individuals’ lives. For instance, I recently attended an event hosted by a tech entrepreneur where I met his co-founder. Together, they had launched a highly successful tech unicorn. When he asked what I do for a living, I replied and, hearing this, he noted how he was a client of ours and how he’d received advice on managing the wealth they’d created from their IPO. Knowing that we’ve guided someone through this kind of life-altering transition—as a trusted confidant who focuses solely on what’s best for them—is incredibly fulfilling.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
Playing and watching sports is at the top my list. After 15 years of not touching a racquet, I rediscovered tennis recently and love to play in my spare time. I’m also a New York Giants fan and a big soccer fan—my team is the Turkish side Galatasaray.
In my downtime while traveling, I enjoy reading about transformative companies that change their respective industries and/or reinvent themselves. I’m especially fascinated by the founders or leaders of those companies. Recent recommendations include Hit Refresh by Satya Nadella, The Everything Store by Brad Stone, and Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. In general, people’s journeys fascinate me, so I love biographies—whether business, military, or state leaders—both good and bad. I believe influence, when used by the right people with the right skills, can change the world.
Then there are my philanthropic passions, which span both my home country and my adopted home of New York. For instance, I sit on the board of a philanthropic organization called Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF), which has been particularly influential in supporting the post-earthquake recovery in Turkey. Closer to home, I am involved with an organization called Graham Windham, an organization that supports underprivileged kids in New York.
Of course, I also love spending time with my wife, our kids, and our English Cream golden retriever, Potato.