“Attitude determines altitude” – Simon Choi

Simon Choi, Director and Priority Banking Executive Team Head, on belonging, collaboration and teamwork at Standard Chartered

With 11 years of experience working at Standard Chartered, Simon Choi is a prime example of how incorporating the Bank’s values of being better together, a force for good and never settle into your role can produce exceptional results and a prosperous career.

What drew you to a career in banking?

I consider myself to be a motivated and enterprising individual, so the infinite opportunities to build a successful career in the banking industry perfectly suited my ambitions. Standard Chartered is a global bank with a diverse workforce, which is one of the factors that drew me to the Bank. My colleagues and I are like a big family and I have thoroughly enjoyed building relationships with them over the past 11 years.

What has been your most memorable experience with Standard Chartered?

As a Director and Executive Team head of Standard Chartered Hong Kong’s Relationship Management function, I am responsible for taking care of my client's financial health. The COVID-19 pandemic imposed a variety of challenges on my role, such as being unable to meet with clients face to face and the financial implications of the lockdown. My team and I worked tirelessly to protect our clients from the uncertain financial climate and keep them in the loop. Our hard work and ability to adapt to change during the pandemic helped to increase our client retention and attract new clients through referrals. This was an incredibly memorable and rewarding experience for me, as I was able to enhance my portfolio and make a real difference to my client's financial health.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever been given?

Believe in yourself! To me, confidence is a mindset rather than a reflection of how hard you work. Adopt a can-do attitude and do not compare yourself to others, as your success can only come from you. Having a positive and ambitious approach to work is imperative, as, after all, your attitude determines your altitude.

A team’s success is not measured by the accomplishments of an individual, but instead by the compound of teamwork and commitment to supporting one another through difficult times

Simon Choi Director and Executive Team Head of Priority Banking at Standard Chartered

What do you enjoy most about working with Standard Chartered?

At Standard Chartered collaboration is celebrated and encouraged. There is a real sense of belonging between colleagues and across every function within the Bank. Each individual’s strengths are leveraged as we support one another and collectively work towards shared goals. Working with such talented and supportive people makes going to work enjoyable and rewarding.

What advice would you give to someone looking to work at Standard Chartered?

I am a firm believer in suitability and as Albert Einstein once said, “it’s not fair to judge a fish’s ability to climb a tree”. Standard Chartered is a global organisation with a wide range of roles and functions, so it is important for prospective candidates to consider whether their qualities are fitting for the role they are applying for or whether another position would be more suitable. Be honest with yourself and you will in turn show the interviewer that you are genuine and capable.