Inversant Welcomes New Board Member, Laurent De Greef
When you have a Dutch last name, a French first name, and speak with a French accent but are still made fun of by the French, there’s only one place you could originally be from: Belgium. I left my homeland a long time ago first for personal reasons and later to pursue a career in finance and investment management. First stop was Mexico, followed by London, and finally Boston – the city my wife and I now call home. Today, I lead Acadian Asset Management’s Solutions and Strategy team, working with large institutional investors to help them achieve their investment goals. Looking back at the path I took to get here, the factors that made it possible were simply a good education, hard work, and a lot of luck.
My travel has helped me see firsthand how unevenly opportunities are distributed around the world. Access to education is not a given, yet it’s somehow a pre-requisite to succeed in professional life. This access varies tremendously based on socioeconomic status—and this holds true right here in the U.S. as well as in countless other corners of the globe. As an immigrant, I’ve also experienced some of the challenges one faces when you are not “born into the system.” Even simple concepts that natives take for granted (saving for your education!) and jargon that locals are used to (what’s the difference between a college and a university?) can turn cultural differences into hindrances. This is why I deeply believe in Inversant’s mission and approach to working with families.
Corporations have an important role to play in the development of the communities they’re a part of. Companies can thrive at a higher level if their surrounding environment is able to participate in their success and benefit from an investment in the community’s growth. We believe that just like in business, our philanthropic outreach should be high-impact and measurable. In this way, Acadian and Inversant are kindred spirits! I’m thrilled that we have established a strategic partnership whereby we not only provide financial support, but also make our quantitative-minded team of people available to support Inversant’s research efforts and growth plans.
I look forward to working with the Inversant Board and team to support our shared vision!
Laurent De Greef is the SVP, Director Client Solutions and Product Strategy at Acadian Asset Management