Matthew is a Vice President in the Deal & Asset Finance team based in London, where he supports the Real Estate and Integrated Strategies asset classes. In his role, Matthew works closely with deal teams, providing expertise in deal closing, financing, and asset finance activities. His team assists with financial due diligence, offers advice on sales and purchase agreements (SPA), and provides structuring and general finance support. They are also responsible for updating asset valuations on a quarterly or semi-annual basis.
Outside of work, Matthew enjoys unwinding by going for runs with friends, often followed by coffee and brunch. He also loves travelling with his wife, whether they are staying active or simply relaxing by the beach. For Matthew, the ideal holiday is either skiing in the Alps or visiting a coastal destination—starting the day with a run or hike, and spending the afternoon by the sea with a good book.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
Coming from South Africa, I had never heard of GIC before. Once I looked them up, I initially expected the London office to have the culture of a typical bank or asset manager. However, after doing more research, I discovered that GIC is one of the world’s largest and leading long-term global investors. I was excited by the prospect of helping to deliver and execute their vision of being the leading global long-term investor. The firm’s reputation and international presence were also very appealing to me.
When I joined, my expectations were exceeded. The London office truly feels like a global hub, with people from incredibly diverse and unique backgrounds. It’s amazing to see how everyone works together for a common purpose. The culture is one of mutual respect and teamwork, which I really value.
What does your typical workday look like?
I always start my day with a run or a gym session before coming to work. I typically wake up at 6:15am so I can be exercising by 6:45am. After a quick shower, I get ready and cycle into the office, usually arriving a little before 9am. I like to get in early to grab a coveted Fage yoghurt for breakfast before settling down to work until lunchtime. I’m someone who likes to take a short walk every 45 minutes to an hour to stay refreshed.
Our team always goes for lunch together. We usually walk to a spot nearby and then return to sit in the canteen as a group. Sometimes, we’ll play a game of pool before heading back to our desks. I typically leave work between 6 and 6:30pm, unless I’m working on a live deal or updating valuations, which can require longer hours.
What do you like most about working here?
I really enjoy the culture and diversity at GIC, where everyone is respectful of one another. I also appreciate the opportunity to work on some of the world’s largest and most complex deals, and the exposure this provides. It’s a fantastic environment for both personal and professional development.
What keeps me going at work is the dynamic and collaborative environment at GIC. The chance to work on high-profile, complex deals is both challenging and rewarding. I find motivation in the diverse perspectives of my colleagues, which fosters creativity and innovation in our projects. The respect and support within the team creates a positive atmosphere that encourages growth. Knowing that my contributions help drive GIC’s vision as a leading global long-term investor is also a huge source of inspiration for me.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
My learning and development experience at GIC has been exceptional. The exposure to complex deals and diverse portfolios has given me practical knowledge and hands-on experience. The supportive culture encourages continuous learning, and I’ve had the opportunity to participate in training sessions and workshops that have further developed my professional skills.
What skills or knowledge have you developed while working at GIC?
While working at GIC, I have developed a deeper understanding of private market asset classes, particularly in Real Estate. My skills in financial due diligence, structuring, and SPA advisory have improved significantly. I’ve also gained valuable experience in optimising capital structures and streamlining operations, which has enhanced my analytical and problem-solving abilities. The collaborative environment has strengthened my teamwork and communication skills, enabling me to work effectively with diverse teams.
What are some highlights in your career thus far?
I have worked on several platforms and portfolios. Within these portfolios, I’ve focused on streamlining operations, optimising capital structures for commercial and tax purposes, and ensuring our platform entities have substance in their incorporated countries (permanent establishment). I’ve also been responsible for valuation updates and overseeing relevant audits.
On the deals side, I have assisted deal teams with financial due diligence, SPA advisory, and deal structuring, as well as supporting restructuring efforts across the portfolio. Most recently, I’ve taken over the Integrated Strategies (ISG) Europe portfolio, which I’m very excited about.
What you should know before joining GIC
I would advise candidates to do thorough research into GIC and its global presence. Understanding the firm’s vision and values is crucial. Be open to learning and embrace the diverse culture at GIC, as it fosters collaboration and respect. Demonstrate your passion for the industry and be prepared to engage in complex problem-solving. Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out to current employees for insights—they can provide valuable perspectives on the work environment and opportunities for growth.