UPDATE: Six newly promoted managing directors at Goldman Sachs are revealing how their diverse passions outside finance have propelled their careers to new heights. In a groundbreaking announcement, these leaders from the 2025 MD class underscore the unexpected lessons learned from experiences ranging from stand-up comedy to military service.
The newly elevated directors emphasize that activities beyond their financial roles not only enrich their personal lives but also enhance their professional effectiveness. For instance, Michael Brill, head of capital formation in Goldman’s asset and wealth management division and a pediatric cancer survivor, champions philanthropy as a vital part of his mission. He leads efforts at the Ronald McDonald House in New York, providing support to families facing childhood cancer. Brill states, “My past experiences and work with the RMH-NY have shaped who I am and how I operate both personally and professionally.” His commitment to mentorship and community service exemplifies how personal trials can inform leadership.
Meanwhile, Myriam Coulibaly, managing director on the Americas equity research management team, credits her passion for running with teaching her resilience. “Running has shown me that discomfort is only temporary,” she explains, highlighting the mental toughness that translates into her professional role. This mindset fosters deeper client connections and reinforces the importance of presence in her work.
In a striking revelation, Lizzie Dove, a senior analyst in global investment research, shares how her background in stand-up comedy has equipped her with essential communication skills. “Landing a joke with confidence translates to writing impactful research reports,” she notes, showcasing how seemingly unrelated experiences can bolster workplace effectiveness.
Additionally, Joe Hall, a private wealth advisor and filmmaker, underscores the power of storytelling in finance. His award-winning film, “The Road to Galena,” illustrates the value of conveying complex financial concepts in relatable terms. Hall asserts, “Storytelling has been a valuable skill in delivering meaningful insights to clients.”
With a solid academic foundation, Jim Schneider, a senior semiconductor analyst, brings a Ph.D. in electrical engineering to his role, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded background. His unique perspective allows him to “context switch” effectively, merging technology and finance to enhance his analyses.
Finally, Bering Tsang, who served in the Marines, emphasizes core military values like integrity and teamwork in his investment banking role. “The Marines taught me the importance of building trust and navigating complex situations,” he states, illustrating how military discipline translates into corporate leadership.
As the 2025 MD class at Goldman Sachs begins their new roles, their stories serve as a powerful reminder that success in finance is not solely defined by traditional paths. The lessons from their diverse experiences offer fresh insights that challenge the status quo, making them not just leaders within their firm, but also role models in the industry.
These revelations are not only inspiring but also a call to recognize the value of diverse experiences in shaping effective leaders. As Goldman Sachs continues to promote innovation, the impact of these new directors on the firm and the industry at large will be closely watched in the coming months.
Stay tuned for more updates on how these leaders will drive change in the financial landscape!
