CEO Insights Magazine

Navigating the intricate landscape of financial services demands visionary leadership, and at the forefront is Mark Kirkham, Chief Executive Officer at the Business Class Group. Mark's journey, commencing in the UK in 1990, has been a testament to strategic acumen and success. Rising from a tied agent to Regional Manager, he achieved top-ranking status within his organization. His career spanned Europe before a pivotal move to the Far East in 2003. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Business Class Group, Mark leads multiple brands and companies: Platinum Financial Services Hong Kong, Soteria Trusts, and Lifestyle Insurance to name a few.

Registered with the Hong Kong Insurance Authority, he continues to champion the implementation of international standards in the region. His affiliations with industry bodies, including the General Committee of HK CIB and leadership roles in the Independent Financial Advisers Association of Hong Kong, bring forth his commitment to professional standards. Let’s dive into an exclusive interaction with Mark Kirkham.

Can you provide a concise overview of your career path and share what inspires your daily routines?

In my career spanning three decades, I transitioned from a UK life insurance company to diverse global locations, eventually settling in Hong Kong 21 years ago. Initially focused on direct sales and sales management, I took an unconventional turn by founding Business Class Group in 2007. Driven by an open mindset, dedication to growth, and a penchant for innovation, the company expanded annually, introducing new brands and specialized services. Today, the portfolio encompasses investment and retirement planning, insurance broking, property rentals and sales, mortgages, corporate services, and asset protection. This diverse range underscores our commitment to tailoring solutions that address a broad spectrum of client needs.

Define Business Class Group within the organizational landscape and its market positioning.

Crafted as distinct entities, each company and brand within the group is tailored to cater to High Net Worth (HNW) individuals in Southeast Asia. With ten brands collaborating across four locations, we offer a comprehensive approach to address clients' financial needs. Platinum Financial Services is the financial planning flagship in our group’s portfolio, focusing on investment and retirement planning. Lifestyle Property, Brokers and Insurance deal with the day-to-day fundamentals of financial planning, such as mortgage, property and insurance. Soteria Trusts is our group’s tax and fiduciary outlet. The organization's uniqueness is rooted in its commitment to innovation, consistently developing market[1] distinguished solutions. Business Class Group adopts a dialogue-centric approach, actively listening to the needs of our clients. Operating from offices in Hong Kong, China, Thailand, and the UK, Business Class Group extends assistance to private individuals and corporate entities, both regionally and beyond.

In your role as CEO, what recent strategic initiatives have you implemented to enhance operational efficiency, drive expansion, and actively involve customers in the market?

In my capacity as CEO, I've led initiatives to streamline operations and boost customer engagement. Recognizing the pivotal role of trust-building, Soteria Insights, a professional blog exploring contemporary estate and tax planning issues came to life in 2021. Additionally, we produce educational guides for self[1]paced learning. Beyond written content, our approach includes hosting regular webinars and in-person events through various brands and companies. This education-centric strategy aligns with modern client preferences, contributing significantly to our success, evident in growing attendance and positive monthly feedback. It underscores the value and impact of the knowledge we share. Share

insights into your leadership style. Describe the principles that guide your approach as a leader.​

My leadership philosophy revolves around integrity and fairness, emphasizing doing what is right and treating everyone equally. I ensure endorsed solutions align with personal standards and promote a culture of self-development and confidence rather than enforcing change autocratically. Valuing feedback and mutual respect, I believe in earning trust through actions and genuine loyalty. Constantly aiming to leave a positive impression, I actively work on enhancing interactions and perceptions.

Where do you envision heading in the future?

What lies ahead for us at Business Class Group is encapsulated in our management team's philosophy: 'boutique is best,' a departure from the common belief that 'biggest is best.' Our focus is not on achieving global dominance or IPOs. Instead, we are dedicated to offering the finest advice and service, operating within the parameters we set for ourselves. Sustaining our foundational principles and vision while navigating daily challenges is a perpetual task. Independent financial service providers face a significant hurdle affording ongoing investments to meet the escalating demands of compliance and regulatory changes. Yet, our steadfast commitment to clients and their unique needs defines our success. Whether led by me or someone else, Business Class Group will persist in serving clients, attracting future generations, and flourishing organically in a world where exceptional standards and service quality are the expected norm.

Given your robust industry expertise, what are your expectations for the future trajectory of the market?

I anticipate significant growth in the Financial Services Market and at the same time, consolidation, due to rising demand across the banking, insurance, and private equity sectors. Global uncertainties drive individuals to seek asset protection. Amidst growing competition, customer-centricity is pivotal. In the finance industry, consumers prioritize savings, emphasizing the need for strong existing relationships and loyalty. Marketing initiatives and educational events are essential. While our brands are well[1]positioned, continuous innovation and adaptability are crucial in serving a diverse client base. The market's ever-changing nature necessitates vigilance, echoing the timeless truth that 'the only constant is change.

Mark Kirkham, CEO, Business Class Group

Mark Kirkham is the CEO of the Business Class Group - a holistic group of companies focusing on financial services for high-net-worth individuals in Hong Kong, China, Thailand and Europe to offer comprehensive solutions addressing all clients' financial needs in one place.