A senior executive at one of the world's leading investment, advisory and risk management firms will take to the stage next month to deliver the prestigious Watt Hepburn Lecture.
Mark McCombe OBE, Senior Managing Director and Vice Chairman of global investment management and financial services firm, BlackRock, will deliver the public lecture at the University of Aberdeen on 9 October.
A University alum, having graduated with an MA in 1987, Mr McCombe will draw on his extensive and international experience in finance during the talk entitled, ‘Growth Through Adversity’.
As part of it, he will explore navigating a global career while capitalising growth opportunities through challenging environments, including periods of stress in the financial system or geopolitical tensions.
“We live in extraordinary times with most major economies slowing, interest rates rising, ongoing international conflicts and increasing protectionism reshaping investment and threatening the outlook for the global economy,” said Mr McCombe.
“There is much to consider but growth is still achievable. I am honoured to have been invited to return to Aberdeen to deliver this illustrious annual lecture and share my experience with students and business leaders alike.”
An industry veteran, Mr McCombe has enjoyed a career in finance spanning more than 30 years and nine different countries. As Vice Chairman, he is responsible for progressing key client relationships and strategic initiatives for BlackRock, including key stakeholder engagement across the US and internationally.
He is one of the Global Executive Sponsors for the Out and Allies network, the Ability Network and a founder of the LEAD program within BlackRock, helping grow and mentor top talent within the firm. Additionally, Mr McCombe served as Chairman of the Toigo Foundation, an organisation committed to advancing the careers of underrepresented groups.
Before joining BlackRock, he served as Chief Executive Officer in Hong Kong for HSBC. Prior to that, he was based in London where he was Chief Executive of HSBC Global Asset Management.
Mr McCombe earned an MA degree from the University of Aberdeen and attended Wharton Business School, where he completed the Advanced Management Program. He was also recognised in the Queen's New Year Honours List in 2006 with an OBE.
Professor John Skatun, Head of the Business School, said: “Growth is the lifeblood of any business and there is no issue more important than understanding the global factors and financial landscape that can influence decision-making and impact future success.
“Mark has a diverse and illustrious career to draw on and we look forward to welcoming him back to Aberdeen for this year’s lecture which I’m sure will prove both inspiring and informative.”
The Watt Hepburn Lecture is open to the public. It takes place on 9 October at Kings College Conference Centre from 5.45pm to 8pm. Free to attend, tickets can be booked here.