The Corner Office: Peter Lynn

Peter Lynn says he is lucky to work with a top team. Photo / Richard Robinson

What is your business goal for 2015?

To build on the company's tremendous momentum achieved in 2014, including reaching $4 billion in assets under management, and deliver exceptional returns for investors by leveraging our local expertise as well as our unique global insight as the only dedicated global investment manager in New Zealand.

Do you have a mentor or leader you admire or aspire to emulate?

Everyone faces their own unique challenges and environments and needs to approach it in their own way. I do read a lot of business leaders' autobiographies and stories, though, and try to glean useful information from them. I'm also lucky to work with some incredibly talented people.

Do you have a golden rule you follow or a business motto?

Treat others how you wish to be treated. I find this works well for employees, clients, suppliers and even competitors.

What is your personal business philosophy or business focus?

Our primary role is to act as a fiduciary for our clients' investments. It's a role we take seriously because people trust us with their money. We're always focused on safekeeping and growing our clients' assets.

What was the best decision you made for the company?

Hiring high-calibre people in key positions. A recent example is Stuart Williams, who joined us as our head of equities in 2014.

What was the hardest or worst business decision you made and what did you take away from it?

Any internal restructuring decisions are hard, but the key take-away is that if it's in the interests of delivering for our clients, and can drive increased business energy, it's a good decision.

Peter Lynn, managing director of Nikko Asset Management NZ.