IN the ever-evolving landscape of careers, sometimes unexpected paths lead to extraordinary outcomes. Such is the case with Charles Ross, a former engineer-turned-finance expert, and his son Andrew Ross, who transitioned from a career in medicine to join forces with his father at Sterling Asset Management.

Charles Ross, an accomplished engineer, had a thriving career in the field for several years. However, his innate curiosity and desire for new challenges propelled him to pursue a different path. Recognising the vast opportunities in the financial world, Charles made a bold decision to transition into finance, ultimately establishing Sterling Asset Management in 2001.

With an impressive 22 years in the business, Charles Ross welcomes a new addition to the family enterprise. His son Andrew, previously dedicated to the demanding role of an emergency room doctor, made the bold decision to embark on a career change amidst the challenging circumstances of an unprecedented pandemic.

In a candid conversation we sat down with the dad and son to delve into their remarkable journey and the path that led them to work together in the family business.

Q: What made you decide to switch careers from medicine to finance?

Andrew Ross (AR): Ever since I was young I excelled in mathematics and harboured a deep longing to play a more active role in our family business. After spending a few years working as an emergency doctor I made a pivotal decision to transition into the world of finance. The immense stress of the pandemic led me to seek a career that would provide a better work-life balance, and joining the family business seemed like the perfect fit.

Q: How has the discipline you developed from your previous roles transferred to your current role?

AR: Quite well, actually. Medicine teaches you to pay attention to detail, be methodical, and ensure nothing is missed.

Q: Who is the most significant influence in your life?

AR: The impact of both my parents on my life has been profound. My father, in particular, has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. From an early age he instilled in me invaluable skills that have prepared me to navigate the challenges of the world. His teachings on frugality, hard work, and discipline have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. These skills have not only propelled me through my journey in medicine but have also seamlessly transitioned [me] into the realm of finance. I am deeply grateful for the foundation he has provided as it continues to shape my path.

Q: What is the most important advice your father has taught you about life, money and advancing your career?

AR: To work hard and be frugal.

Q: What do you like the most about working at Sterling Asset Management?

AR: The environment and atmosphere at Sterling Asset Management can be best described as a tight-knit family. Whether it’s assisting with a project, sharing knowledge or offering guidance, the team at Sterling Asset Management thrives on a culture of inclusiveness and camaraderie, making it an exceptionally supportive and pleasant place to work.

Q: Capital markets are the new frontier for Sterling Asset Management, is this a part of growing your market share? What are your long-term plans for Sterling in this market?

Charles Ross (CR): Capital markets is a new area for us and it’s been a timely addition to our portfolio of services. It’s an important part of growing the company, going forward. It allows you to diversify your income stream without increasing the risk exposure to your balance sheet. We pride ourselves on the service we deliver to our clients, and they rely on us a lot. So, the long-term goal is to grow that area of the business locally and regionally.

Q: Charles, how do you feel about working alongside your children?

CR: It’s great. I think anybody who is in business would be happy to have members of their family working alongside them. The close relationship and the trust there can’t be replaced. I’m fortunate because both of my children are very intelligent, hard-working, diligent and responsible. I know that they bring a lot to the business. My son has a lot of skills that complement Marian so the plan is for them to take over so I can play more golf!

Q: What are some of the lessons you want to impart to your son?

CR: He already comes with discipline. He worked in accident and emergency so he’s qualified for dealing with a crisis! He is very good at math so numbers don’t frighten him — and having a faculty with numbers is helpful in finance. He’s also very fiscally responsible, and that’s very important in our line of business.

Q: Your daughter Marian Ross-Ammar has been with the Sterling for over 10 years, is having them both in the organisation a part of building your legacy?

CR: Whatever I have will be left to them, and Sterling is a valuable asset and will only become more valuable over time. They both complement each other in personality and their approach to money and business. I think together they will carry on the business in the best possible way.

Q: How do you think about growth individually, for the family, and for the business?

CR: Life is always about growth. I think you should always be open to new ideas and new ways of doing things and [be open to] grow[ing] as a person — even as you get older. I find that younger people focus a lot on their personal development and it’s something I admire, especially in my daughter Marian. The relationship between parents and children evolves over time too; it requires adjustment on both sides. As long as there is love and trust, the relationship will evolve in the most constructive way. We are just as close as a family now as we have ever been before, and the children being involved in the business will only strengthen that.