By: Michael Berman
Two minutes with Michael Berman, Head of Client Management
We serve a diverse group of clients. From first generation entrepreneurs to large multi-generational families with landed estates. Each have wide-ranging needs and objectives and we have the right teams in place to support them. We are now one of the largest independent multi family offices in EMEA. With that scale comes a wide service offering and more efficient processes and controls.
Our investment approach centres around families. Our aim is clear – to preserve their capital for now and future generations. We invest in a wide range of asset classes to help diversify risk and grow their portfolios. Nothing is off the agenda.
Engaging with the next generation is crucial. We achieve this in several ways. In addition to formal, educational programmes, our team structure mirrors the needs of the different generations we serve. Usually we have a senior partner supported by an associate, climbing the career ladder. Our approach is to build long-term relationships. I, for instance, am working with the third generation of a family I started working with in 2003.
Families are talking increasingly about impact. Accelerated by the pandemic, ESG investing is becoming more mainstream. We have seen with our own clients that they are more aware of how they can make a positive difference with their investments. They are seeking increasing exposure to sustainable strategies and ensuring that investment managers incorporate ESG into their processes.
We help families bring their philanthropic strategies to life. First, we help them define their values as a family and craft an all-important ‘purpose’ for their wealth. We are then able to set up the structuring and governance frameworks and, ultimately, manage the assets.
Each client is different - some are passionate about animal welfare and conservation, for others it may be medical research. Whatever their passion, our broad-ranging internal ecosystem and years of experience should reassure clients going through the process.
Michael is Head of Client Management for Stonehage Fleming Investment Management in London and a member of the Executive Committee. He joined the Group in 2003 as a Client Relationship Manager and is responsible for the relationships of many of our large UK-based families.
Find out more about Stonehage Fleming's Philanthropy offering