Ruth has very quickly settled into the team and is busy ensuring we continue to meet the high standards expected of us as part of Jersey’s highly regulated finance industry. Ruth took some time out of her hectic day to give us some insights into her role and what she likes to do in her spare time.
We’re delighted that you have joined the team at Forward Group Ruth, what attracted you to the role?
I instantly fell in love with Rosie, the office puppy, who attended my very first interview! But it was also fantastic to meet the leadership team and learn more about the hands-on senior management model at Forward. The director-led approach delivers a high level of expertise and client service by virtue of senior management proximity to customers, the admin team and the compliance function, which enhances risk management.
How do you see your appointment benefiting Forward Group?
I have had an international career in finance, having lived and worked across several jurisdictions in both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. This multi-jurisdictional experience informs a practical and pragmatic understanding of jurisdictional and source of wealth risks and considerations, which is helpful with clients who are based all over the world.
My experience as a regulator and a regulatory consultant means I have a deeper understanding of relevant issues across the financial services sector. This is valuable in tackling challenging risk and compliance matters while also “doing the right thing” for clients and the business, in accordance with requirements.
Looking forward, what would you like to achieve within your role at Forward?
I look forward to working with the directors and the wider team to manage risks effectively and help advise on regulatory and compliance matters. The work Compliance does not only protect our clients, colleagues and the business but also helps to maintain Jersey’s reputation as a high-quality international finance centre.
What motivates you to be the best you can be?
I love what I do and have a passion for bringing others along with me on the risk and compliance journey. Compliance with rules and regulations may seem tedious at times but when you understand the reasons for the regulatory framework and the importance of every team member in preventing financial crime and improper use of jurisdictions like Jersey on a daily basis, then it becomes a whole lot more interesting and compelling!
What opportunities can you see the role will bring you?
Working within a smaller team is an incredible privilege and offers unique opportunities for building excellence via influence and collaboration – in larger organisations, the ability to influence and change can be more limited. At Forward, we work as a close-knit team sharing our knowledge and building the business in the best interests of our clients.
Obviously when working in a complex and busy environment getting a good work-life balance is essential – how do you unwind, what are your interests outside of work?
I love spending time with my godson, his wife and their boys – they are the centre of my universe. I share my love of cooking with friends and family, with the objective being to linger over the dinner table for hours on end, catching up on life.
I also enjoy reading, cinema and watching TV series. A particularly guilty pleasure is Bravo TV’s Real Housewives franchise which has, surprisingly, delivered regular, live financial crime case studies to the entire world!