As another year of the Oakglen Wealth Internship Initiative begins, we’re delighted to welcome Jamie Martin to our UK Wealth Team as our new Placement Intern. At Oakglen Wealth, we’re committed to supporting and celebrating every member of our team, from longstanding colleagues to those just beginning their careers with us. In this feature, Jamie shares his personal interests, professional ambitions, and what motivates him both inside and outside the office.
Thanks for joining us today Jamie and a warm welcome to Oakglen Wealth. We would love to find out a bit more about you and introduce you to our ever-growing network of clients, financial advisers and professional connections.
How has your first month at Oakglen Wealth been?
It has been a really positive first month and I’ve learned an incredible amount already. Every day brings something new, so there has never really been a chance to stand still, which is exactly the sort of environment I enjoy. Being given responsibility from the beginning has helped me build my confidence and develop much more quickly than I expected.
Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive, which has made settling in much easier. It genuinely feels like there isn’t anyone I couldn’t ask for help or advice, and people are always happy to explain things or answer questions. That has made a huge difference as I’ve been finding my feet.
I would also like to thank the previous placement interns, Tom Wheeler and Jody Hollingsworth, who spent time helping me understand the role before they moved on. They gave me a great foundation and made the handover smooth, which I really appreciated.
What inspired you to select Oakglen Wealth for your internship?
I first became aware of Oakglen Wealth through my personal network and went on to undertake plenty of research. I investigated the business, its reputation within the industry and the strong performance it has achieved. The company’s growth and ambition also stood out to me. It felt like an exciting time to join, particularly as the business continues to expand.
I was already interested in wealth management as an industry, the relationship focused nature really appealed to me as I like the idea of building long term relationships with clients while also working in a technically interesting industry.
What was the selection process like?
The recruitment process consisted of two interviews. My first interview was with our Chief Operating Officer, Nick Middleton, and Group HR Manager, Rebeka French. That conversation was focused more on me as a person, my interests and whether I would be a good fit for the team and the company culture.
The second interview was with UK Managing Director, Dominic Tayler, and Investment Manager, Eloise Rouse. That discussion explored my knowledge of financial markets, investments and some of the technical aspects of the role.
Although there were technical questions, both interviews felt very welcoming. Everyone wanted to get to know me properly rather than simply asking formal interview questions, which made the whole experience much less intimidating.
How has it been getting to know your new colleagues so far?
I’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone. There are lots of different personalities across the business, which makes every day interesting. It’s been nice moving into a professional environment where you spend so much time working alongside people with different experiences and backgrounds.
As well as learning how different colleagues like to work and communicate, I’ve enjoyed getting to know people on a more personal level too. Building on those professional relationships has been one of the highlights of my first month and everyone has been very approachable from day one.
How has it been learning about the investment side of the business?
I’ve found the investment side fascinating. One of the things that has interested me most is seeing how much research goes into every investment decision. There is a huge amount of analysis behind fund selection, and it’s been great to see how the team combines detailed research with broader market views.
I’ve particularly enjoyed sitting in on the weekly investment updates and monthly committee meetings, where different funds and ideas are discussed. It has given me a real insight into how decisions are made and the process that goes into managing portfolios.
It has also been interesting to see how the team’s house view influences investment decisions while still allowing room for individual discussion and different perspectives.
Is there anything you want to see more of?
I’d love to gain even more exposure to portfolio management over the coming months. I’m interested in seeing how individual client portfolios are managed over time, how decisions are made on an ongoing basis and how portfolios evolve as market conditions change.
There are so many moving parts within the investment process that I haven’t yet had the chance to experience, so I’m looking forward to continuing to build my understanding as the placement progresses.
Have you had exposure to different systems and processes?
Yes, I’ve already had the opportunity to work with a wide range of systems that are used across the business. I’ve been using our CRM system alongside key operational systems provided by our custodian, SEI.
I’ve also been involved with client onboarding, including account opening, as well as risk screening as part of our due diligence and governance processes. Working alongside Emi Eldridge and Bella Tayler has given me a much better understanding of how these processes fit together and the importance of accuracy and attention to detail.
What are your goals and aspirations for the upcoming year?
My biggest goal is simply to learn as much as I possibly can. I want to develop a thorough understanding of both the wealth management industry and the reasons behind Oakglen Wealth’s success. Being able to see how a successful business operates day to day is a fantastic opportunity.
From an investment perspective, I’m particularly keen to improve my understanding of Bloomberg and learn how to use it effectively. Jody introduced me to some of the platform’s capabilities before finishing his placement, and I’ve already started building on that knowledge.
I’m also interested in understanding how macroeconomic and microeconomic factors influence investment decisions, equity markets and portfolio construction. We have regular investment calls throughout the week where ideas, company updates and market developments are discussed, and those sessions have already been incredibly valuable.
This sounds like a sensible plan. Do you have a mentor or anyone to report into helping you along the way?
I report primarily to our COO, Nick Middleton, and we have regular catch ups, including a monthly review to discuss how I’m progressing and whether there are any areas where I can continue developing.
I wouldn’t say I have one dedicated mentor because I’ve been fortunate enough to learn from everyone across the business. Every member of the team has different experience and knowledge, and everyone has been generous with their time whenever I’ve asked questions.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I definitely see myself working somewhere within financial services, although I’m keeping an open mind about exactly where that might be. Over the next few years, I hope to continue building my knowledge and begin working towards professional qualifications.
This placement is giving me a great understanding of wealth management, and regardless of where my career eventually takes me, I’m confident the experience and skills I’m developing here will provide a strong foundation.
Are you undertaking anything additional in terms of your professional development?
At the moment I’m mainly focused on gaining as much practical experience as possible through the placement itself. I want to make the most of the opportunities available within the role before committing to additional qualifications.
That said, I would be interested in completing courses around artificial intelligence in the future. AI is becoming increasingly important across many industries, including financial services, so I’d like to build my understanding of how it can be applied effectively.
How would your past colleagues and fellow students describe you?
I’d hope they would describe me as reliable, approachable and someone they can depend on. I like being organised, turning up on time and helping wherever I can.
I’d also like to think people would say I’m positive and easy to get along with. I enjoy keeping busy, working through tasks and getting things done, and I always try to bring a positive attitude to whatever I’m doing.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work and study?
Most weekends you’ll probably find me on a golf course. I’m definitely still improving, but that’s part of what I enjoy about it. Every round gives you something to work on and there’s always another challenge waiting.
I also enjoy surfing whenever I get the chance. I recently went on the university surf trip to Morocco, which was an amazing experience and somewhere I’d love to visit again.
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
Alongside golf and surfing, I’ve enjoyed getting involved with various sporting activities at university, including cricket and other social sports. They’re a great way to stay active while spending time with friends. I’m also quite partial to fishing.
I was due to take part in a large sporting event recently, although unfortunately it was postponed until 2027 because of the weather. Hopefully I’ll get another opportunity to take part.
When I’m not playing sport, I also enjoy going fishing whenever I can. I like the patience it requires and it’s a great excuse to spend time outside and unwind.
Apart from sporting activities, what type of books and movies do you enjoy most?
I enjoy reading books about geopolitics, international relations and how geography influences global events. It’s fascinating to see how ideas and theories can shape the way countries develop over time, and even more interesting when predictions made years ago eventually come true.
When it comes to films, you can’t really beat a classic action film. They’re always an easy watch and a great way to relax after a busy week.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
My dad has been one of the biggest influences in my life. Watching how hard he has worked over the years has shown me the importance of dedication, consistency and putting in the effort if you want to achieve something. I really appreciate the sacrifices he’s made for our family, and that’s something that motivates me to work hard myself.
My friends are also a big influence. I’m lucky to be surrounded by ambitious people who are all driven in different ways, and being around that sort of mindset naturally encourages you to keep improving yourself as well.
What are some of your favourite spots in London to visit?
Having grown up outside the city, I’m really enjoying getting to know London properly for the first time. Hyde Park is probably one of my favourite places so far, and I recently went to a concert there, which I really enjoyed.
One of the things I enjoy most about London is the atmosphere. I like soaking up the energy, the architecture and simply being surrounded by so many different people and businesses. Although our office is based in Soho, I know there’s still plenty more for me to discover, and I’m looking forward to exploring more of the area over the coming year. I like being surrounded by the hustle and bustle.
What is your favourite food?
You can’t really go wrong with a sausage roll and mash. It’s definitely one of my favourite comfort meals, especially with baked beans on the side.
And do you cook yourself, Jamie?
I’m gradually getting better in the kitchen. Like a lot of students, I went through the classic phase of living on chicken and rice, but I’m trying to branch out a bit now and develop my culinary skills.
I recently made toad in the hole, which turned out really well, so that was a good start. Over the next year I’d like to build my repertoire in the kitchen.
Thanks again for sparing us your time today Jamie and we wish you all the best in your role at Oakglen Wealth.
We hope you enjoyed this quick-fire interview and gained some insights into the new member of our investment team. You can read similar content for our more established team members below:
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