Meet the manager: Jacqueline Broers
Portfolio Manager of Utilico Emerging Markets Trust.
If you weren’t a fund manager, what job would you do?
I have a very analytical mind and I have always been drawn to opportunities where I am challenged to understand things. So I suspect I’d end up doing something very similar in the finance world…
What was the proudest moment of your career?
Rather than one particular moment, for me it has been seeing the evolution of Utilico Emerging Markets Trust over the last 15 years – the growth of the portfolio, the relationships we have built in emerging markets, and the strength of the team that supports the strategy. Contributing to a disciplined, long-term investment approach and watching it grow over time has been so rewarding.
What was the most difficult moment of your career and why?
Apart from carrying my cardboard box out of Lehman Brothers in September 2008... all periods of severe market dislocation are challenging. Not only from an investment perspective but also because of the uncertainty they create for companies and the teams involved. Navigating those moments requires discipline, and the difficulty often lies in balancing immediate pressures with long-term conviction.
My motto in life has always been to “work hard and play hard”. Life is too short – live life to the max and enjoy what you do.
Jacqueline Broers, Portfolio Manager of Utilico Emerging Markets Trust.
What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
My motto in life has always been to “work hard and play hard”. Life is too short – live life to the max and enjoy what you do.
Away from the workplace, how do you spend your time?
Weekends are very busy and usually involve being a taxi driver for my kids running them around to various sporting events. When I can (and fitness permitting!) I also play hockey for a local team. Hockey has been something I have always played ever since being a kid and thoroughly enjoy.
Tell us about the last book you read?
I tend to read and listen to a lot of financial articles / podcasts and have very limited downtime where I totally switch off. However one book I recently read (not financial) and thoroughly enjoyed was ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ by Bonnie Garmus – a fantastic book as it is funny, smart and empowering – blending humour with emotion.
What is your favourite film of all time and why?
I know the answer here should be the Big Short, Blackberry, Margin Call etc – all great films but embarrassingly my favourite film is Mamma Mia – just pure joy and fun!
In your personal life, what would you like to achieve in the next 12 months?
Every year I say the same… to spend less time on my phone. I am constantly telling my kids to put their phones down but I’m not a great role model!
