Phil Watson, Chief Investment Officer of Mondrian Associates LLC, brings over 25 years of financial industry expertise, including more than 20 years in wealth management. Known for his innovative leadership and deep investment knowledge, Phil has held various senior roles, demonstrating his ability to drive transformation and growth within large, complex organizations.
Phil's career is marked by his significant contributions at Citi, where he served in numerous high-impact positions. As Head of Platform Development & Innovation at Citi Global Wealth, he led end-to-end strategy and execution for wealth platform changes, focusing on enhancing the client experience and advisor productivity. His leadership on over 40 major projects and integration of fintech platforms underscored his commitment to driving business growth through innovation.
Previously, Phil was the Managing Director and Head of the Global Investments Lab at Citi Private Bank. In this role, he developed a globally recognized analytics and advisory platform, leveraging big data and AI to create bespoke investment solutions for clients across the US, Latin America, APAC, and EMEA regions. His work with over 1000 family offices and his role as a voting member of Citi’s Global Investment Committee, where he influenced investment strategies for assets exceeding $100 billion, highlighted his strategic acumen and client-centric approach.
Phil's tenure as Chief Innovation Officer at Citi Private Bank saw him recognized as a pioneer in wealth management. He introduced scalable portfolio analytics tools, big data systems, and AI products, earning the FT PWM's Best Global Digital Leader award in 2021. His innovative mindset and dedication to leveraging technology for client benefit were further evidenced by his leadership in achieving the FT PWM Best Bank for Big Data & AI award for his team.
Phil's journey in the financial sector began with roles in investment analysis and corporate banking, where he honed his skills in advisory solutions, risk management, and client relationship development. His academic background includes a degree in Economics and French from the University of Leeds, and he is a Chartered FCSI Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment. He is an enthusiast of AI, frequently lecturing on its applications in wealth management and finance broadly.
Outside of his professional life, Phil is passionate about sports, music, and travel. And an advanced clarinetist and saxophonist. Phil is also deeply committed to philanthropic initiatives, supporting causes such as MND and UNICEF.
Phil Watson's multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to investments innovation and excellence make him a distinguished leader in the financial industry, poised to drive forward the vision and success of Mondrian Associates LLC.
Phil is a founding member of Mondrian’s Investment Committee, Management Committee, and Advisory Board.
