Navin joined J. Robert Scott in 2008 and leads executive searches across all asset classes and functions within the Asset Management industry. He has over 15 years experience working with global financial services firms to attract, retain and develop key leadership talent.

Most recently, Navin was Director of Executive Search for Fidelity Investments International, with direct responsibility for board level appointments. Prior to this he worked for Barclays Bank PLC leading the Executive Resourcing team, with responsibility for Top 100 hiring into the bank. He previously spent 8 years in executive search, hiring across all functional disciplines within Financial Services across Europe, as a Senior Consultant within the Global Employment Solutions practice of Ernst & Young LLP.

Navin holds a BA in Modern History from University College, London and gained a Licence from The Sorbonne (Paris IV) in International Historical Studies. He has also completed the Common Professional Examination at The College of Law, London.

Navin was born and raised in London. He spends his free time playing and watching competitive sports, as well as raising a young family.

Global Asset Management Firm
Chief Investment Officer

UK based Asset Management Firm
Chief Financial Officer

European Asset Management Firm
Equity Analyst

Global Asset Management Firm
Director of Equity Research

UK Asset Management Firm
Global Head of Institutional Distribution

1. What would you say was your most challenging placement and why?

The hiring of Chief Investment Officers is always very challenging given the lack of a significant talent pool in this space coupled with the fact that most firms seek to hire from within. In our most recent example, the client was a $250bn International Asset Manager with established and sizeable investment teams located in Europe and Asia. There was significant interest from the market, but finding the right combination of investment, business and people leadership skills gained in an international environment was tough. We were delighted when the hire was made.

2. What would you say is the top attribute that makes J. Robert Scott more effective than other senior level search companies?

Its commitment to excellence with each search it undertakes whether it’s a first time client or a long term relationship. Also its ability to operate across geographical boundaries in a way that delivers real value to its clients.

3. What international city do you find to be most interesting and why?

London – my home town. It is a truly international city that is constantly evolving.

4. What do you consider to be the hardest challenge in finding the right candidate for your clients?

Getting the “cultural fit“ right. Technical capability to do a job is a prerequisite for every candidate shortlist. But identifying a candidate who shares similar value sets to our clients whilst also having additive qualities that can take an organization forward, is the difference between a good short term hire and a great long term hire.

5. What’s the last book you read and did you like it?

Chasing Stars - The Myth of Talent and the Portability of Performance, by Boris Groysberg. A fascinating read which, based on in-depth research on the movement of investment talent between firms, challenges the assumption that hiring "stars" is the only or best way to success.