From Fine Dining to Finance: The Unconventional Journey of Close Brothers MD Chiara Caldwell
In an exclusive career retrospective, Chiara Caldwell, managing director at Close Brothers Property Finance, shares her remarkable journey from working in Gordon Ramsay's restaurants to leading in London's financial heartland. The Italian-born executive, now 44 and living in Cambridgeshire, reveals how hospitality experience paved the way for banking success.
Early Career: Hospitality Roots and Financial Awakening
"I started my career in hospitality and was attracted by the glitz of fine dining," Caldwell explains. "I ended up working for Gordon Ramsay for a couple of years." This initial foray into the restaurant world provided unexpected preparation for her future in finance, teaching her about service excellence and high-pressure environments.
Her financial awakening came much earlier, however. "When I was eight years old, I went with my mum to the bank to take out a mortgage to refurbish our house," she recalls. "I was fascinated by how she could borrow money to fund construction costs and by the concept of interest and saving rates." This childhood experience planted the seeds for her eventual career shift.
Breaking into Banking: The Square Mile Ascent
Caldwell's first formal role in finance began humbly as a cashier at Lloyds Bank's Hammersmith branch. From this entry position, she methodically worked her way up through the ranks, eventually joining the RBS corporate real estate team - what she describes as her "dream job" at the time.
Her current position at Close Brothers Property Finance came through what she calls "one exploratory chat" that led to another, opening unexpected opportunities. "I wasn't really looking to move," she admits, "but it opened up this great opportunity."
City Perspectives: Energy and Accessibility Challenges
When asked about working in London's financial district, Caldwell describes it as "the financial engine of the UK" with "such a distinct energy." She adds: "Working there I feel like I am part of something bigger and making a tangible impact."
However, she identifies one significant area for improvement: "Definitely easier access for people who don't have connections in the industry." Reflecting on her own journey, she notes: "I feel very fortunate that I got there eventually, but it was hard without knowing anyone who worked in the City."
Career Milestones and Personal Insights
Among her most memorable business moments was a coffee meeting at Carluccio's with a senior team member. "I first got the feeling that I had the support for a step up in my career," she remembers. "Sure enough, my promotion followed."
Her proudest professional achievement involves "delivering for clients and seeing projects being delivered where I have played a role." Personally, she treasures taking her daughter to the City: "Seeing her being inspired by the tall buildings, the buzz and the office environment. That made me proud to be a role model for her."
Professional Philosophy and Future Outlook
Caldwell's career advice centers on intentionality: "Slow down and be deliberate about where you invest your time and energy. Less can sometimes be more." She adds: "That feels more relevant now than ever."
Conversely, she rejects the advice to "stick to your knitting," explaining: "Other people's views of what constitutes 'your knitting' might be very different from yours."
Looking ahead, Caldwell expresses optimism: "Yes, I am optimistic. We have a fantastic, highly experienced team and we are well set up to support our clients through this more challenging economic cycle."
Personal Preferences and Work-Life Balance
When entertaining clients, Caldwell favors Yauatcha, describing it as "a real City institution" with "great food and friendly, efficient service." For after-work drinks, she recommends Broadgate Circle, noting its symbolic importance: "It's a symbol of how the City is evolving and is a real testament to the power of real estate to transform places and connect people."
Outside work, she enjoys family time in Cambridgeshire, engaging in sports, walking the dog, and exploring with her daughter. For vacations, she prefers "an active holiday somewhere warm by the sea," with recent trips to Italy and plans to return to Sardinia in summer.
With a BA in Business Studies, an MBA, and CFA qualification, plus talents in sourdough baking, upholstery, and interior design, Caldwell embodies the modern executive - professionally accomplished while maintaining diverse personal interests and family commitments.
