President's Blog

A Responsibility to be more Than Financial Technicians - Peter Dawkins at the Roundtable

September 28, 2010
post contributed by Megan Flynn

Peter Dawkins approached the podium with a commanding and powerful presence last Wednesday. He began by introducing his extensive and accomplished background as he delivered an inspiring presentation to the NYHFR. Mr. Dawkins did not disappoint, even with his impressive reputation preceding him.

The financial industry is currently being preceded by a very different reputation. The attitude towards the industry has been appropriately tainted by recent events like the 2008 market crash and various frauds. The solution to these unfortunate and fragile perspectives is trust, time, and integrity, says Dawkins.

The NYHFR was honored to host a speaker whose presentation was so consistent with the founding principles of the organization. Dawkins explained that in order for the financial industry to ingrain and exemplify trust and integrity over time, we need to collectively build a strong community where responsibility is conspicuously shared. According to Mr. Dawkins, building a stable and purposive community also requires leadership, not simply management. He presented a viable solution to fight the present struggle that every member of the financial services industry is faced with today, carefully noting our focus should not entirely be on this war, but on ending all future wars as well. 

Many arguments in the media today have gone after corporations’ codes of ethics, calling them useless examples of cognitive dissonance in light of recent events. Dawkins presented a perspective that doesn’t initially look to the rules, codes, and management for answers but directly to the individuals of the financial community for something more: Actions.

As an organization we are excited to step up to the challenges presented by Dawkins and facilitate a community founded on values, trust, and integrity. Creating an opportunity for industry professionals to come together for the purpose of sharing knowledge, values, and best practices is a priority of the NYHFR.

We are looking forward to welcoming more financial professionals to the Roundtable who share in these values. Until we come together as a community, upholding every member to these values and best practices, our reputation will be determined by an unfortunate few.

Pete’s provocative yet motivational address seemed to rouse the audience in an interesting Q & A discussion after his presentation Wednesday. He stirred a curiosity and introspection while uplifting pride and responsibility to the individuals of the financial community. Empowering individuals to contribute to the financial community in a post-Madoff market because, Dawkins said, "Being a community of institutions, we have a responsibility to build culture, therefore gaining trust."

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