In conversation with …
haun Ruite
In conversation with …
Shaun Ruiters
Shaun Ruiters joined PPS Investments ( PPSI ) in October 2023 as only its second Chief Executive in its 16-year history . The Professional sat down with Shaun to get to know the man heading up the investment business with more than R80 billion assets under management .
TELL ME ABOUT YOUR EARLY CHILDHOOD . WHERE DO YOU COME FROM ?
Growing up in the Cape Flats , Bishop Lavis and Belhar , was not easy . Yet , with four incredible sisters and parents who championed hard work , humility and education , we navigated the rough terrain with laughter and love . My closest friends , some now colleagues , were found there too . Those early years , shaped by my parents ’ humble beginnings , instilled a belief in the transformative power of strong bonds and knowledge . My father , before his passing , reminded me to serve : family , friends , and the broader South African community . That , more than anything , guides my purpose today .
WHAT LED YOU TO CHOOSE A CAREER IN THE INVESTMENT INDUSTRY ? CAN YOU HIGHLIGHT KEY MILESTONES IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY ?
A chance phone call during an interview for a company that no longer exists , ironically , set me on my path to investment success . What felt like a wrong turn opened the door to my first role in the field and I have not looked back since . My journey has been fuelled by two key drivers : enduring relationships and insatiable curiosity . My father ’ s financial struggles sparked my interest in post-retirement solutions , leading to a career-defining project at my previous company . We developed a product that significantly increased retirees ’ annual returns , potentially impacting millions of South Africans . Joining PPSI , the country ’ s leading purposeful asset manager , marked my latest chapter to pursue a mission-driven vision . In essence , unplanned detours , unwavering relationships and a constant thirst for knowledge have guided me to where I am today , ready to tackle the future with purpose and passion .
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES IN YOUR LIFE AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM ?
My father ’ s passing , though deeply painful , solidified my commitment to PPSI ’ s mission . Joining resonated with his final words to “ serve family and South Africa ”. Witnessing hardship during my own resource-scarce youth , I understand the transformative power of support and knowledge . Now , I stand among the fortunate , driven to ensure the same opportunities reach countless others .
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