Marvin is the Head of Business Partner & Solutions, where his team explores and exploits new and existing technologies to support their strategic and operational business needs. His team develops software and implements solutions for Front Office, Investment Services, Total Portfolio and Corporate Services domains.
Outside of work, he tries to pay more attention to the special needs community, looking for ways to do something meaningful. For example, he had been helping an adult with cerebral palsy manage his website and email campaigns so he could focus on writing his autobiography and earning his keep.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
Given the word “government” in the name of GIC, I assumed we would operate similarly to a public-sector organisation. But when I first started at GIC over 20 years ago, I was surprised by how dynamic the team was. Major foundational projects were in flight, and many of these foundational systems are still in use by the organisation today. That demonstrated the team’s foresight in making these major investments even as far back as two decades. We have a long-term orientation, which allows us to invest in technology that helps our investment groups and corporate services operate better, faster, and smarter.
What does your typical workday look like?
Most of my workdays will be spent in meetings with stakeholders, partners, and, most importantly, my team members. It is never a dull day here, as I’ll have to crack my head to think of creative solutions to problems, sometimes unusual, that have bugged most of my team members. I try to schedule these meetings in a meaningful way to ensure that we get results and conduct business efficiently. Any spare time I have during or after work will be spent responding to emails, reviewing work, or working on proposals.
What do you like most about working here?
The autonomy that enables me to steer the ship in the right general direction. The most interesting work I’ve done involves forming new teams or taking on existing ones. Typically, this entails refining their purpose, strategy, and execution while adapting to changes.
At least half of my bosses throughout my career were female. I believe that sends a very powerful message with regards to how we embrace diversity, equality, and inclusion — especially at the leadership level. We have been encouraged and have been open about hiring talent globally.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
As I became more senior, I learnt to deal with, and adapt to ambiguity more easily. I try to think a few steps ahead so that I can make quicker and hopefully better decisions when they are required. This is a crucial skill to have as more people rely on you to make decisions. In my career, I’ve had many mentors, including direct bosses with whom I’ve had excellent relationships. Our level of trust allows us to collaborate and for my mentor to provide me with advice and guidance in a very natural manner.
What you should know before joining GIC
Candidates must show a passion for technology, learning agility, and a hunger to explore. Ask for autonomy, be more ambitious, and show more empathy towards those around you!