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Extraordinary Growth

Six Roles, Three Countries, Global Impact

From a summer job in Wellington, New Zealand, to leading Client Solutions for North America in New York today, Winston Li’s FNZ journey spans six roles across three countries and shows what extraordinary growth can look like.

When asked what makes FNZ extraordinary, Winston said:

“I genuinely think it’s a one of one. The opportunity is real, the ambition is high, and the mindset of FNZers is rare."

Winston Li Line Photo

Winston Li, Head of Client Solutions, North America

Q&A

Can you describe your career journey at FNZ?

“I joined FNZ in 2012 in Wellington, New Zealand. It began as a summer job during my final year of university within Operations, specifically the Transfers team. After I graduated, FNZ offered me a full-time role, and I took it!”

“Soon after, I transferred to London as the UK business was growing quickly. I worked as a Business Analyst, then moved into Solution Consulting, where I helped deliver some major transformational projects, including Vanguard UK from start to finish.”

“From there, I moved into Institutional Custody and Transfer Agency, then returned to the platform world after COVID, working in Propositions and focusing on growth and go-to-market. Then, more recently, I moved to the US, and I now lead Client Solutions for North America, and am based in New York.”

What has it been like moving from New Zealand to London to New York?

“It has been an incredible journey, and it is a big reason I have stayed at FNZ. The business has given me a lot of opportunity and mobility, and I feel like I have really grown up with the firm.”

“The move from New Zealand to London was easier because I was 24 and it was just me. The move to the US was harder because it was a family move, with a young child and another on the way. But North America felt like the next frontier, and that was exciting... and continues to be so!”

Winston Location Photo

What is your philosophy when it comes to career progression?

“A big part of it is backing yourself. At the start, I did not know what a database was or what a SQL query was. You get thrown in the deep end, and it can feel like sink or swim, but you learn fast.”

“You need to be proactive about your own development, do your best, and stay positive. That mindset helps you build relationships and keep moving forward.”

What makes FNZ extraordinary to you?

“For me, it starts with the mission and what we do (opening up wealth). When I look at our clients, our products and services, and what we are trying to achieve, I genuinely think it is unique.”

“And personally, FNZ gave me opportunities I’m not sure I would have had elsewhere. I wasn’t a perfect student on paper, but FNZ gave me the chance to develop, take on new challenges, and build a career over time.”

Is extraordinary career growth still possible at FNZ today?

“Yes, I think it is. The business is still growing, and that creates opportunities. There are also more structured programs now to support development, including leadership programs focused on progression and growth. I think it's key to be proactive, if you seek it out there opportunities are there!

Ready to embrace the extraordinary?

If you believe you have the makings of an FNZer, we’re eager to meet you.

Explore extraordinary FNZers