Gregory Naicker, Head of CSD Services at Strate, shares his career insights

How did you find yourself on this career path?

I have always been fascinated by banking. I was fortunate to start my career at Standard Bank and I immediately found a passion in corporate and investment banking. I joined the CIB division when the South African market was migrating investors from a certificated to uncertificated environment. This was the catalyst for my passion in the financial market

What and who inspires you?

I believe that all human beings should have the right to savings and the right to be able to be financially ‘free’. This belief system drives me in what I do. I am inspired by people that are motivated and driven by a similar belief system to me, such as our former president Nelson Mandela.

What advice would you give to anyone starting out their careers?

Understand what the meaning of success is to you. Choose a career that you want to wake up for every day – not one that you have t

What has been the most valuable skills you have ever learned? And how has this helped your career?

Listening – the ability to listen has enabled me to create value for clients in the environment that we operate.

Outward mindset – the ability to really understand what clients want and what impact I have – positive or negative – gives me the ability to provide solutions to problems in a manner that is a ‘win-win’ for everyone