Xinyu is a Vice President within the Group Controllers in the Investment Services Private Markets department. He is responsible for the accounting, audit, group reporting, governance and analytics of GIC’s private markets portfolio entities.
Outside of work, Xinyu prioritises maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. To keep a healthy lifestyle, he regularly works out, whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or long-distance cycling. Spending quality time with family and friends is equally important to him. He cherishes moments shared over meals, engaging in fun activities, or simply savoring each other’s company. These interactions provide a strong support system and enrich his personal life.
Why did you decide to join GIC?
GIC’s reputation for excellence, strategic foresight, and commitment to long-term value creation resonated with me profoundly after years of working in the private market investment sector. The prospect of collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the industry within a culture that values integrity, collaboration, and continuous learning was incredibly appealing. GIC’s holistic approach to investment management, combined with its global reach and influence, made it the ideal place for me to grow both professionally and personally.
What does your typical workday look like?
Typically, my workday starts early in the morning, prioritising requests from our regional teams that have been sent overnight. This ensures that our global operations run smoothly and that any urgent matters are promptly resolved. My day is filled with various meetings, both with internal teams and external partners. These meetings are crucial for aligning work progress, discussing strategies, and ensuring continuous initiatives and optimisations.
In between meetings, I dedicate time to business-as-usual tasks, which involve managing daily operations, reviewing financial reports, and ensuring that all processes are running efficiently. Problem-solving is a significant part of my role, as I work to identify and address any issues that arise, maintaining our high standards of performance.
I am also actively involved in initiative projects aimed at driving innovation and improving our investment strategies. These projects allow me to collaborate with colleagues across different departments and leverage our collective expertise to achieve our goals.
Overall, my day is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring a balance of strategic thinking, effective communication, and meticulous attention to detail.
What do you like most about working here?
The challenging nature of the work, driven by our sizeable and complex portfolio. The diversity and scale of our investments require constant strategic thinking and innovative problem-solving, which keeps me intellectually engaged and continuously learning. I am fortunate to work alongside talented colleagues who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support. This environment not only enhances our collective performance but also creates a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Furthermore, the motivating prospectus of contributing to a globally renowned sovereign wealth fund that aims to generate sustainable long-term returns for Singapore is deeply fulfilling. Knowing that our work has a significant impact on the economic stability and growth of the nation adds a profound sense of purpose to what we do. Overall, the combination of challenging work, a supportive team environment, and the meaningful mission of GIC makes it an incredibly rewarding place to work.
How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?
My learning and development at GIC have been enriching and multifaceted. One of the most exciting aspects has been the opportunity to witness firsthand the dynamic investment activities that GIC undertakes. I have gained invaluable insights into the strategic considerations and rigorous analysis that drive our investment decisions.
Additionally, I have had the privilege of playing a key role in driving finance transformation and operational optimization changes within the company. These initiatives have provided me with hands-on experience in change management and process improvement.
GIC offers a wealth of learning resources that have been instrumental in my professional development. From comprehensive training programs and workshops to access to industry-leading research and expert mentorship, I have had ample opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills.
What you should know before joining GIC
For candidates aspiring to join GIC, my first piece of advice is to be passionate about what GIC does and ensure that you can align this passion with your individual career goals. GIC is dedicated to generating sustainable long-term returns for Singapore, and having a genuine interest in investment management and global markets will help you thrive in this environment.
Secondly, it is crucial to be inclusive and open-minded. GIC values diverse perspectives and fosters a collaborative culture where everyone’s input is respected and valued. Being able to work effectively with colleagues from various backgrounds and disciplines will enhance your experience and contributions.
Lastly, stay curious and committed to continuous learning. The financial industry is dynamic and ever evolving, and GIC provides ample opportunities for professional development. Embrace these opportunities, seek out new knowledge, and be proactive in expanding your skill set. By being passionate, inclusive, open-minded, and committed to learning, you will be well-positioned to succeed and make a meaningful impact at GIC.