Emma Loisel: London investor, advisor and all-round Kiwi go-getter!

“I have had several careers already since I arrived in London in 1997. First I was a Corporate Fraud Investigator until I became a Business Manager for KPMG Consulting.  I then moved into the new media/technology sector and ran two businesses until we sold them. I am now an Investor and Advisor, plus a Non-Executive Director on Boards. My Kiwi ‘give it a go’, solution-orientated attitude has probably meant that when opportunity has presented itself, I have naturally stepped forward and given it a crack. So far this has served me well.

“I have become more actively involved in Kea and the New Zealand Business Women's Network since I finished running the two media businesses and regularly attend New Zealand events. 

On life as a Londoner

“The beauty of London still takes my breath away when I drive over Waterloo Bridge on a fine afternoon. London is one of the best places in the world to live because continental Europe is right on the doorstep.

“The things I miss about New Zealand are deserted beaches, the smell of the air, bright sunlight, morning bird song, family and friends plus the Kiwi attitude to just figure out a solution. Oh and our tendency to be half glass full people, our 'she'll be right' perspective is something Londoners would benefit from adopting.

On the power of networking

“Networking is a critical part of developing career and business opportunities. But networking with Kiwis is only one component of this, as you also need to network extensively with individuals from the local market. Isolation is a challenge for New Zealand, particularly for businesses that want to export.  These businesses need to ensure they are connected with Kiwis overseas in their industry, plus locals. Otherwise, they risk lacking an understanding of the competitive landscape or specific cultural and customer needs of a market.  Expat Kiwis in a foreign market can be an excellent conduit  for businesses to reach local professionals and businesses in those markets.  I am a strong advocate of businesses having foreign Non-Executives to ensure this is achieved.”

Succeeding as a Kiwi on the world stage

For such a small nation, it never ceases to amaze me that everyone you meet has met a Kiwi before and nine times out of 10 speak very highly of them.  We are seen as likeable, flexible, hard working and practical people. Kiwis need to ensure this reputation continues - as economies and businesses are forced to focus on creating value and delivering results, those who can be relied upon to find solutions and thrive in performance driven environments will rise to the top.”  

To read a recent article published in The Listener about Emma, click here.