"Aktia combines strong expertise, high-quality products and a genuine ambition to grow internationally. I wanted to be part of that journey."
Senior Client Executive Gregory Smith joined Aktia to help expand the company's international reach. With more than a decade of experience in the financial sector, he sees significant opportunities for Aktia's asset management business beyond the Nordic region.
Originally from Switzerland, Gregory Smith has built his career in international finance. He spent several years at private bank Pictet & Cie in Geneva, working in roles ranging from financial products and client relationship management to fund investment sales trading. Along the way, he developed a strong interest in international markets and building long-term client relationships.
Before joining Aktia, Gregory led the expansion into the French market for a Helsinki-based company, helping grow the business into one of the group's largest markets. When he learned about Aktia's international ambitions, he saw an opportunity he did not want to miss.
"Aktia combines strong expertise, high-quality products and a genuine ambition to grow internationally. I wanted to be part of that journey."
Bringing Aktia's award-winning EMD and credit products to new markets
Today, Gregory works in Aktia's International Sales team, managing relationships with distributors and investors in several countries. Together with his colleagues, he helps introduce Aktia's funds to international clients and supports the company's growth in new markets.
For Gregory, one of the most impressive aspects of Aktia is depth of expertise and the willingness of people to work together.
"We have highly specialised knowledge and award-winning products, particularly in emerging and frontier markets. At the same time, there is a strong culture of collaboration. In my experience, that combination is rare in asset management and creates a real competitive advantage."
Gregory believes this is an exciting time to join Aktia's international growth journey. The team is expanding, new partnerships are being built, and the combination of expertise, product quality and momentum creates strong opportunities to grow across Europe and beyond.
"Aktia has many of the qualities international investors value, yet it remains relatively unknown outside the Nordic region. Helping more investors discover what Aktia has to offer is a highly motivating opportunity for our team."
Advice for an international career
According to Gregory, international success is built on trust, credibility and understanding different cultures and markets. His advice to anyone interested in an international career in finance is simple:
"Be curious about different markets, cultures, and people. Focus on building relationships and creating value for others. That mindset can take you further than you might expect."
For Gregory, international growth is ultimately a team effort.
"We are building this story together. Every team at Aktia plays a role in our success, and that's what makes this journey so exciting."