In the fast-paced world of finance, where quarterly results often dominate headlines, one leading fund manager is advocating for a radically different approach. Justin Onuekwusi, head of retail multi-asset funds at Merian Global Investors, has distilled his philosophy into a powerful mantra for professionals at every level: stay curious and keep your eyes on the long game.
The Pillars of a Sustainable Career
Onuekwusi's advice, shared in a recent interview, cuts through the noise of daily market fluctuations. He argues that genuine, enduring success isn't built on chasing short-term trends or mimicking others. Instead, it requires a foundation of authentic curiosity and a steadfast commitment to long-term objectives.
"The financial industry can sometimes feel like an echo chamber," Onuekwusi observes. He stresses the importance of looking beyond the immediate circle of colleagues and competitors for inspiration. True innovation and resilience, he believes, come from a broad and inquisitive mindset that questions conventional wisdom and seeks diverse perspectives.
This principle has guided his own impressive trajectory. As a key figure at Merian, Onuekwusi oversees significant retail multi-asset portfolios, where his long-term, curiosity-driven strategy is put into practice daily. His role demands not just analytical skill but the vision to see beyond present market conditions.
Why Authenticity and Patience Are Key Assets
For Onuekwusi, another non-negotiable element is authenticity. He warns against the temptation to build a career based on emulating someone else's path or persona. "Your unique perspective is your greatest asset," he asserts. This authenticity fosters trust with clients and colleagues and leads to more robust, original investment thinking.
The call to focus on the "long game" is particularly poignant in an era dominated by instant news and 24/7 trading. Onuekwusi encourages professionals to develop the discipline to ignore short-term noise and market "fads." This involves constructing investment theses and career plans that can withstand volatility and deliver value over years and decades, not just months.
This long-term orientation is crucial for both personal career development and effective fund management. It allows for the compounding of knowledge and relationships, and it aligns interests with those of investors who seek sustainable growth.
Implications for the Next Generation of Investors
Onuekwusi's insights carry significant weight for those entering the finance sector or looking to recalibrate their approach. His message serves as a counterbalance to the high-pressure, short-termist culture that can sometimes pervade the industry.
By championing curiosity, he implicitly advocates for continuous learning—whether through studying different asset classes, understanding global macroeconomic shifts, or exploring technological disruptions like fintech and sustainable investing. This expansive knowledge base is what enables fund managers to identify opportunities others might miss.
Ultimately, Justin Onuekwusi's philosophy presents a compelling blueprint for success. It merges the intellectual rigour of constant inquiry with the emotional discipline required for patience. In a sector often characterised by complexity and rapid change, his straightforward advice—stay curious, be yourself, and think long-term—offers a clear and powerful guide for building a meaningful and impactful career in the world of investment.
