Capital Blog | Alan Smith

Alan Smith

CEO

Creating a business that would set itself apart

I started Capital in 2004 with a clear vision to do things differently. I wanted to challenge conventional thinking in financial services that seemed to be all about selling expensive and baffling financial products to the public to generate large commissions – but which never seemed to solve the real life issues faced by clients.

So I wanted to build a boutique business with a client-focused culture that took time to get to know our clients, listened to them, understood them and built a lifetime relationship as a true ‘trusted adviser’.

Enjoying my down time

Away from the office, a young family keeps me on my toes with mini rugby at Regents Park Royals, alpine skiing, and travel featuring prominently.

Those most important to me

Huge extended family, a vibrant blend of Scots, Irish and Swedish. Under our roof – my wife, Catharina and two children, Sean and Scarlett Grace.

Tick off the list

Having just climbed Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, who knows, maybe Everest base camp next year.

…and then

Take my family on safari.

A meal for two

I should say my wife but if she can’t come it would be the Dalai Lama – I could use some spiritual enlightenment.

On the big screen

The Intouchables – the only film I can recall that made me cry and laugh in equal measure.

A really good read

How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie – written in the 1930s it tells all you really need to know about getting on in life.

There’s no place better

In the mountains skiing with my family.

Enjoying a good laugh

An American actor called Larry David cracks me up every time I see him.

And when I’m at the top of my game

Thinking creatively with pen and paper and no electronic devices anywhere near me.