Brent is a keen traveler whose desire for seeing new countries is only matched by his keen desire to try new hobbies. His love for finance and things quantitative meant teaching investment finance was a great fit.
Staff Spotlight: Brent Shapiro
Title:
CFOWhat is your favorite travel memory?
In 2011, as part of a 3-month sabbatical which entailed travelling across the world, I flew to Scotland to play golf. Part of that trip was spent queuing from 2:30 am to play at the famous Old Course at St Andrew's. Teeing off at 7 am was special but getting the opportunity to play with 3 good friends was an added bonus.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
Since my adolescent years, I have always wanted to teach. Since working at iX, I was afforded the opportunity to teach US university students an investment finance course that was of my own creation. The experience was everything I had hoped it to be as I was fortunate enough to receive feedback that I had positively influenced the lives of my students.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
One particular student mailed me after the program to say that my teaching had inspired him to pursue a life in finance, something he didn't think was viable before taking the Investment Course. His words "Thank you again for the greatest experience of my life" will remain with me for a long time to come.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I would probably be driven by my desire to see Lisbon and therefore would opt for one of the courses offered there. With that in mind, I would probably choose management consulting as it would tie in nicely with some of my former job experience whereby I tried advising small firms on how to improve operations. Were I to pick up or refine my skills, I think that would be invaluable.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
iXperience is driven by the desire to reinvigorate education by coupling practical application with real-world skills whilst building long-lasting relationships. Students that attend the programs offered have a definite competitive advantage in the job market, but importantly they are able to flourish in an environment that is aimed at putting students outside their comfort zone and seeing how they adapt.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
I think there are a few significant factors. Firstly, companies should embrace the age-old adage that "cash is king" in that they should be prudent in conserving cash reserves. Secondly, a company should embody the idea of open and honest communication. This will allow employees to feel comfortable speaking their mind and this can only assist in driving a company forward via the generating of good ideas.