Poh Khai is a Research Analyst at the Climate Change Research team in the Public Equities department. His team is responsible for researching on key sectors and thematic topics that contribute towards climate change mitigation and adaptation. They also look for companies that are uniquely positioned to enable the global transition to a net-zero economy and invest in them to achieve long-term returns.
Outside of work, Poh Khai enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He maintains a balanced and active lifestyle by going for regular runs.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Building Science and PhD in Architecture from a university in Singapore, I worked for a consulting firm, a logistics company, and an e-commerce platform. At that time, I was looking for a role that would challenge me to step out of my comfort zone.
As I came from a non-financial background, asset classes, finance and valuations were foreign concepts to me. I often wondered what it would be like working in finance. During the interview process, I had the opportunity to speak with finance practitioners and gained a better understanding of the work and culture at GIC. The work at GIC is challenging and purposeful. Employees are given autonomy and the support required to succeed.
These aspects ticked all the right boxes for me, and I have never looked back since.
What does your typical workday look like?
My typical day usually includes a mixture of responding to emails, reading on research reports, speaking to companies, having calls with other analysts, participating in team huddles and of course, building financial models. Occasionally, I will be invited for company visits to experience and learn more about their manufacturing and research and development capabilities.
I also spend some time reading the news every day to keep abreast of the key events that are happening globally. While reading the news is important, casual conversations with my colleagues in the pantry or elevator are equally as valuable in providing such insights and knowledge.
While my day-to-day activities may remain the same, it is the new knowledge that I have gained and the eureka moments that set them apart.
What do you like most about working here?
Investing is both a science and an art. There is no right or wrong, but about understanding differing opinions to make informed decisions. My colleagues are always open to share their opinions and embrace diverse perspectives, which help us to make robust investment decisions.
As part of the newly set-up Climate Change Research team, I am excited to be part of this ramp-up process and define a scope of work from the ground up. Although we may face challenges along the way, I believe that having a close-knit team with diverse backgrounds and an open culture will set a good foundation for success.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
There are many learning and development opportunities available in GIC, both internally and externally. When I first joined GIC, I realised I needed to upskill myself in finance and valuation-related knowledge. The company supported my interest in attending an external course which provided me with sufficient knowledge to excel in my role.
Later in the same year, I also enrolled myself in finance courses that were designed for the GIC Professionals Program intake. Till today, I continue to participate in training modules available in the company. If you have a constant hunger for new knowledge, there is nothing stopping you from learning and growing.
What you should know before joining GIC
A career change may be challenging, but starting off with the right mindset will get things moving. GIC values different backgrounds and experiences that enrich our teams’ perspectives. You will be given autonomy and the support required to succeed.
Be open to others’ opinions and share your perspective. You should constantly find ways to be more efficient and proficient.