High Flyer: Q&A with Omega's John Moore
The seed for John Moore's interest in finance was planted during a year 10 work experience program and further flourished as he worked in the London markets during the early stages of his career. In his newest role as a senior portfolio manager with Omega Global Investors, he tells Industry Moves about the challenges he has faced so far, what he likes the most about Omega's approach and shares an impressive aeronautical talent that has been on his bucket list since his 20s.
The seed for John Moore's interest in finance was planted during a year 10 work experience program and further flourished as he worked in the London markets during the early stages of his career. In his newest role as a senior portfolio manager with Omega Global Investors, he tells Industry Moves about the challenges he has faced so far, what he likes the most about Omega's approach and shares an impressive aeronautical talent that has been on his bucket list since his 20s.
How have your first few months in the role been?
I have really enjoyed my first few months working with like-minded people who strive to deliver outcome focused ideas with strong risk adjusted returns.
What have been the greatest challenges that you've faced in the role so far?
My greatest challenge is ongoing and it's around messaging our equity income fund in the retirement income space. Not all equity income funds are the same and many long only equity income funds take on a lot more risk than us. We aim to provide consistent income and be half the volatility of the equity market and we believe this is well suited to retirees.
In your opinion, what is the best way to diversify a portfolio?
I like the Omega smart beta strategy as it resolves the issue of risk control across a spectrum of factors. This allows us to deliver a core holding of Australian equities diversified across sectors and securities.
You've worked for a range of large financial services organisations, including Citigroup and Macquarie, with a particular focus on derivatives. What attracted you to this part of the financial sector?
The seeds were planted way back on the old Sydney Futures exchange when I did work experience in year 10! While working in London and Hong Kong I became interested in structuring products, where I could see the potential, benefits and opportunities available to investors if they were offered the right product and ideas to meet their investment objectives and desired outcomes. I then started to formulate a structure that delivers.
What has been the greatest lesson that you've taken away from your previous experience?
My past experience has taught me that brand is everything.
What has been the best piece of advice you have received?
"Do something you enjoy" - It is so simple, but so important, because it brings purpose and passion to your life, as well as giving you the ability to work through the challenging times. It's something I encourage in my own children as they head into adulthood.
Where did you grow up and what was it like?
I grew up one of six kids living on Sydney's North Shore. I was very lucky as I had a great childhood filled with days on my push bike and playing lots of sport at our local park.
What's something that most people wouldn't know about you?
Seven years ago, I decided to go and learn to fly helicopters and get my private licence. It's something I have always wanted to do since my mid 20's.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
To keep equilibrium, I like to spend as much time as possible with my family on weekends. I enjoy their company and they remind me of the important things in life which include laughter, and connection. We all love keeping fit and active, eating well, and planning our next holiday.
