High demand drives renaissance at Scottish Investment Operations

The strategy for growth was outlined last night in Edinburgh when the organisation’s chief executive addressed delegates from Scotland’s financial community.

CEO Raymond Wales described “resurgent demand” from Scottish companies seeking greater collaboration over common business challenges, such as changing regulatory landscapes.

The member-funded organisation, which focuses on operational support for fund management and investment banking companies based in Scotland, was established in 2001 but experienced a membership decline following the economic crisis of the last decade.

Its current members collectively manage an estimated £6 trillion of customer assets and employ more than 5,000 people.

Mr Wales said: “This is a key point in time for our membership. Through active and collective participation, we have an agenda that is current, tactical and relevant for them.

“Ultimately, I believe this will drive improved performance and have a positive impact on Scotland’s financial services sector reputation as a global centre of excellence.”

“Regular forums give them the opportunity to discuss in confidence common challenges and a base to work together to implement best solutions and practices.

He added: “Investment Operations are a key part of the Scottish economy and there is great strength in unity in meeting regulatory and customer expectations.

“I am thrilled to get a mix of significant blue chip and new thought-leading organisations behind the relaunch and I am exploring various options to take SIO’s reach further – the demand is certainly there.”