What is your current role at smzh? Has it changed yet?
I am Head of Research & Advisory Solutions. In short: I monitor markets, trends, and regulatory changes, and consider what they mean for our clients. The role was newly created, and I’m excited to help shape it over the long term.
How long have you been working for smzh?
For two weeks, so the learning curve is correspondingly steep.
What does a typical work day look like for you?
It’s a bit difficult to define a typical day, as I’ve just started. Right now, I have many introductory and alignment meetings. Fundamentally, I focus on tracking relevant developments in the economy and markets and deriving what those mean for our business, our clients, and their financial situation.
What do you like most about your job?
I’m excited by the smzh business model, which is grounded in holistic advice—regardless of client profile or wealth class. This requires a broad perspective: from homeownership and investment topics to tax and regulatory changes.
What sets smzh apart as an employer?
smzh values entrepreneurial and collaborative thinking over silo mentality. This not only drives the company’s evolution but also fosters personal growth for employees.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I work out a lot.
What are your biggest dreams?
To keep developing myself every day and, step by step, become the person I want to be.
Has working in this area changed your approach to finances and retirement planning?
Until now, I hadn’t given much thought to retirement and insurance topics. Through my work, I have gained deeper insight and will certainly be more conscious about these issues going forward.
What financial or retirement advice would you give to peers?
Many people I know are mostly focused on earning more money and overlook tax-advantaged retirement opportunities. Instead, they often invest speculatively and get burned. With competent advice, you can do both: seize opportunities while building a solid retirement plan—not only for retirement itself, but also for personal goals that shouldn’t have to wait, like traveling around the world, starting your own business, or buying a home.
What is your favorite sport? Do you practice it yourself?
Calisthenics. I’ve been doing it myself for 14 years now.
Do you have a book recommendation?
"Reading People" by Joe Navarro. It’s a fascinating book about understanding body language. It left a big impression on me as a teenager.
What is your favorite movie?
"Scarface"
What kind of music do you enjoy?
It varies, but right now I especially enjoy nasheeds – melodically performed Arabic poetry.
How do you unwind after work?
I don’t really need a clear break. I enjoy thinking about my work even in my free time, and I often have my laptop with me – whether at home, on the go, or even on vacation.
