Anuj Goel of Century Private Wealth: 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became a C-Suite Executive
Leadership Challenges — Managing a diverse team with varying expertise levels was a challenge I wish I anticipated before entering the C-suite. It required adapting my leadership style to foster communication and learning, ensuring everyone felt valued and empowered to contribute.
As part of our series called “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Began Leading My Company” I had the pleasure of interviewing Anuj Goel SEO, Century Private Wealth
Anuj Goel is a seasoned investment professional with 17 years of diverse experience across major asset classes. His expertise lies in public markets, where he has managed large pools of assets directly and through external managers.
With a background spanning from family offices to banks and some of the largest financial services provider institutions like Kotak and Edelweiss, Anuj brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as SEO of Century Private Wealth.
Prior to joining Century Private Wealth, he managed Union National Banks’ mutual funds and discretionary portfolio. He has also been part of a family office team managing a $1 billion proprietary fund.
Anuj has been recognized as the Best Fund Manager for three consecutive years by Euromoney. He holds an MBA in Finance and is a dual Charter holder of both CFA and CMT certifications.
Having worked in organizations with different visions and facets ranging from family offices to a bank, Anuj has been instrumental in successfully driving clients’ agendas. In his role as SEO, Anuj is ever devoted to driving growth across business verticals and geographies while upholding the highest standards of client service and satisfaction. Encapsulating his exceptional financial career to the innovative journey of Century Private Wealth in redefining standards & success in wealth management.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
My journey into the world of finance began during my masters in Mumbai, where I specialized in financial markets. During this time, I started delving into the nuances of the financial markets. The allure of numbers and the complexity of market dynamics captivated me in and prompted me to explore this domain further. As I progressed through my studies, I realized that finance offered the perfect blend of analytical precision and intellectual stimulation that I craved.
Upon completing my MBA and CFA & CMT certifications, my understanding of financial markets deepened significantly. I became well-versed in concepts like fundamental and technical analysis, which further solidified my passion for the field. The inherent complexity of financial markets intrigued me, presenting endless opportunities for learning and growth. a career in finance felt like a natural progression for me. I thrive in settings with challenges and the financial industry provides ample opportunities for continuous improvement. Each day presents new puzzles to solve and insights to uncover, making each moment in this dynamic field, exhilarating and rewarding.
I view obstacles not as barriers but as opportunities to innovate and excel. Whether it’s navigating market volatility or devising investment strategies, approaching each challenge with determination and a keen eye for opportunity. Ultimately, my goal is to leverage my expertise for the benefit of my organization and its stakeholders contributing to success in an ever-evolving financial landscape.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
Certainly! One of the most unforgettable experiences took place during my early days as an intern. It was a time when I was new to the financial industry, excited to learn and be helpful. During my MBA program, like many of my peers, I was required to undertake an internship. I got a job with a commodity firm, which was my first job in the industry. At first, like most interns, I was given basic tasks without much consideration for what I liked or what I could do.
However, I quickly realized that I wanted to do more than just mundane assignments. I approached the head of the business and expressed my desire to contribute to research, particularly in technical analysis. To my surprise, he was receptive to my suggestion and provided me with the necessary tools and resources to pursue this interest. I dove into analysing charts and providing insights to the internal research team. This experience not only allowed me to apply what I had learned in my studies but also gave me a sense of fulfilment and purpose.
The story took an unexpected turn during campus placements when a company from the same firm’s equity division came to hire, but for jobs that didn’t match what I wanted. Luckily, destiny stepped in when the placement head told me that the commodity division had suggested me for a technical analyst role. I was stunned when I got the job without even having a proper interview. It showed me the importance of giving my all during my internship and grabbing chances as they came.
This experience taught me the importance of proactivity and taking initiative in shaping my career path. By stepping out of my comfort zone and voicing my aspirations, I not only secured a job but also set the stage for future growth and success in the industry.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve embraced is the importance of prioritizing income growth instead of simply reducing expenses. This mindset was pivotal to guide me early in my career when I had to choose between saving money by cutting costs rather than investing in opportunities for growth. I realised that focusing on expanding my earnings potential, rather than solely on tightening expenditures, yielded substantial long-term benefits. This principle not only applies to money it resonates to numerous life decisions. Being open to change and taking chances, even if it means leaving behind what’s comfortable, has really helped me in my personal and professional development. Ultimately, these lessons remind us to think positively, focusing on growing and seizing opportunities while understanding that there might be sacrifices along the way.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on your leadership style? Can you share a story or an example of that?
There are many, but one that comes to mind is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill, which has had a significant impact on shaping my leadership style. One key principle from the book that deeply resonated with me is the importance of mastering one’s thoughts and beliefs to manifest success.
What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?
What distinguishes our company is its culture of humility and genuine commitment to employee growth. Unlike other organizations, Century Private Wealth offers uncapped opportunities for advancement and a supportive environment where employees are empowered to excel. This combination of empowerment, trust, and humility makes Century Private Wealth a standout organization in my experience.
The road to success is hard and requires tremendous dedication. This question is obviously a big one, but what advice would you give to a young person who aspires to follow in your footsteps and emulate your success?
For a young person aspiring to follow a similar path, my advice would be to prioritize passion and self-drive. In today’s world, there are ample opportunities for early exploration and experimentation. It’s crucial to pursue what truly ignites your passion, even if it means trying out different things and occasionally failing along the way. Once you’ve identified your true calling, being self-driven becomes paramount. The most successful individuals are those who possess an innate drive to pursue their goals relentlessly, without needing external motivation. While it’s okay to find contentment in your journey, always maintain a sense of curiosity and ambition to keep moving forward.
Often leaders are asked to share the best advice they received. But let’s reverse the question. Can you share a story about advice you’ve received that you now wish you never followed?
That’s an interesting question! 🙂
Reflecting on past experiences, I recall receiving a piece of advice early in my career that in retrospect, I now wish I had never followed. It was the notion that success in leadership meant projecting an image of invulnerability and never showing weakness or doubt. This advice, while well-intentioned, ultimately led me to suppress my own vulnerabilities and fears, believing that displaying any sign of uncertainty would undermine my authority and credibility as a leader.
However, as I’ve grown in my leadership journey, I’ve come to realize that authenticity and vulnerability are not signs of weakness but rather strengths that foster trust and connection within teams. By embracing these qualities and being open about my challenges and uncertainties, I’ve been able to cultivate deeper relationships with my team members and nurture a workplace culture anchored in honesty and transparency.
This experience has taught me the importance of staying true to myself and embracing vulnerability as a key component of effective leadership.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
The three character traits that have been most instrumental to my success are diligence, investment of time and energy, and passion. For diligence, I recall my commitment to mastering technical analysis during my studies. While others may have approached it casually, I took the initiative to download softwares, analyse charts every weekend, and apply what I was learning. This dedication set me apart and provided me with a deeper understanding of the subject.
Investment of time and energy is another crucial trait. I devoted significant time to honing my skills, going beyond what was required. By immersing myself in practical applications, I gained invaluable expertise that laid the foundation for my success.
Perhaps the most important trait of all has been passion. I’ve always been extremely passionate about my work, approaching everything with excitement and genuine interest. Even the mundane tasks felt exciting to me because I love what I do so much. This unwavering enthusiasm has been my driving force through my professional journey, grounding me even when challenging times arose.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Most of our readers — in fact, most people — think they have a pretty good idea of what a C-Suite executive does. But in just a few words can you explain what a C-Level executive does that is different from the responsibilities of other leaders?
A C-suite executive, such as a Senior Executive Officer (SEO), differs from other leaders primarily in their role of aligning the entire organization towards a common goal, ensuring cohesion among departments and individuals, and prioritizing the well-being and alignment of the team alongside organizational interests. They serve as the link that keeps everyone together and working towards the same objective, while also ensuring equitable treatment for all team members.
What are the “myths” that you would like to dispel about being a SEO or C-suite executive? Can you explain what you mean?
One of the key myths I’d like to dispel about being a SEO or C-suite executive is the notion that we’re expected to be the smartest individuals in the room or possess all-encompassing knowledge about every aspect of the business. The reality is quite different. While we may have expertise in certain areas, it’s unrealistic to assume that we know everything. We rely on our team members and their diverse skills and perspectives to complement our own. Being a SEO doesn’t mean having all the answers; it means knowing how to leverage the collective intelligence of the team to drive success.
What are the most common leadership mistakes you have seen C-Suite leaders make when they start leading a new team? What can be done to avoid those errors?
One of the most common mistakes I’ve observed C-suite leaders make when they start leading a new team is micromanagement. It’s a misconception that being involved means overseeing every detail of what others are doing, which ultimately wastes time and undermines trust within the team. Another mistake people often make is relying too much on an authoritative leadership style instead of one that focuses on influencing and collaborating with others. This can lead to disengagement and hinder team productivity.
To avoid these mistakes, C-suite leaders ought to prioritize establishing transparent expectations and objectives, encouraging team members to embrace responsibility for their tasks, and offering assistance and direction as required instead of perpetually monitoring their every action. It’s crucial to foster an environment of trust, flexibility, and adaptability to address the changing demands of both the team and the organization.
In your experience, which aspect of running a company tends to be most underestimated? Can you explain or give an example?
One aspect that tends to be most underestimated is the investment in activities that don’t directly contribute to immediate revenue generation. Often, there’s a misconception that every task must directly correlate with financial outcomes to be considered valuable. However, dedicating time and resources to endeavours such as networking, brand-building, or employee development may not yield immediate monetary returns but are crucial for long-term success
For example, spending time networking with industry peers or participating in community events may not result in immediate sales or profits. Still, it helps in building valuable relationships, enhancing brand visibility, and fostering goodwill within the community, which can lead to future business opportunities.
Similarly, investing in employee training and development programs might not show immediate financial gains. However, it improves employee morale, enhances skill sets, and increases productivity in the long run, contributing to overall organizational success.
While these activities may not translate into immediate revenue, they play a vital role in shaping the company’s reputation, fostering growth opportunities, and laying the groundwork for sustainable success in the future. It’s important not to underestimate the value of these non-revenue-generating aspects of running a company.
Ok super. Here is the main question of our interview. What are your “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Began Leading From the C-Suite”? Please share a story or an example for each.
Leadership Challenges — Managing a diverse team with varying expertise levels was a challenge I wish I anticipated before entering the C-suite. It required adapting my leadership style to foster communication and learning, ensuring everyone felt valued and empowered to contribute.
Strategic Focus — Striking a delicate balance between implementing cost-saving measures and growth investments for which demand relentless focus and the commitment to evaluate short-term gains against long-term opportunities. This constant challenge of deciding where to allocate resources amidst competing priorities requires a nuanced approach and strategic foresight.
Navigating Dynamics — Successfully Navigating complex organizational dynamics and maintaining confidence, even in the face of skepticism or doubt, is critical for effective leadership. I’ve learned to overcome self-doubt and confidently assert authority while remaining open to feedback. It’s definitely a delicate but essential balancing act.
Work-Life Balance — Prioritizing personal well-being is crucial to prevent burnout and ensure long-term effectiveness. Overtime, I have realized the importance of setting boundaries and prioritize self-care.
Commitment to Continuous Learning — Embracing a mindset to consistently improve oneself and investing in personal and professional growth while staying adaptable is key for long-term success.
In your opinion, what are a few ways that executives can help to create a fantastic work culture? Can you share a story or an example?
I think executives can contribute to creating a fantastic work culture by prioritizing employee well-being, fostering open communication, and demonstrating genuine care and support for their team members. For example, in my own experience as an SEO, I make it a point to regularly check in with my team members, not just about work-related matters but also about their personal well-being.
One instance that comes to mind is when one of my team members was facing financial difficulties outside of work. Although the issue wasn’t directly related to their job performance, I recognized the impact it could have on their overall happiness and productivity. So, I took the initiative to advocate for them within the company, helping them access the financial assistance they needed. This gesture not only alleviated their personal stress but also strengthened their trust and loyalty towards the organization.
Additionally, I prioritize transparency and openness within the workplace, encouraging my team members to feel comfortable coming to me with any concerns or ideas. By creating a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, we foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie that enhances overall morale and performance.
Ultimately, executives can contribute to a fantastic work culture by leading with empathy, integrity, and a genuine commitment to supporting their team members both personally and professionally.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
Given my experiences and beliefs, if I could start a movement to bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, it would be centered around promoting empathy and mental health awareness in the workplace. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the importance of prioritizing employee well-being and fostering a supportive work environment.
This movement would advocate for creating workplaces where mental health is destigmatized, and employees feel comfortable seeking help and support when needed. It would involve implementing policies and initiatives that prioritize mental wellness, such as providing access to counselling services, promoting work-life balance, and offering resources for stress management and resilience building.
By raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting a culture of empathy and support in the workplace, we can positively impact the lives of countless individuals, fostering healthier, happier, and more productive work environments. This movement has the potential to not only improve the lives of employees but also contribute to overall societal well-being by promoting healthier attitudes towards mental health in all aspects of life.
How can our readers further follow you online?
You can connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuj-goel-cfa-cmt-27aa9823/, or know more about our company through our website https://www.centurywealth.ae/
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Anuj Goel of Century Private Wealth: 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became a C-Suite… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.