By: SEO Mavens

J.P. Morgan is one of the renowned financial institutions in the world. Globally, it manages $2.6 trillion of assets in more than 100 countries. Justin Nelson, the Managing Director and Head of the Asset Management and Financial Principles Coverage Team for J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Connecticut, oversees a team that manages $15 billion in assets. He knows a thing or two about getting results: Justin Nelson was Barron’s number two-ranked Advisor in Connecticut and made the Financial Times 400 list in 2020.

But Nelson doesn’t work in a vacuum. He relies on his twenty-person team to build portfolios, manage investments, and more. After several decades of management at J.P. Morgan, the private banker has developed his signature leadership style that stands out in the often overly traditional finance space. Justin Nelson shares how his management style creates a new paradigm at J.P. Morgan.

Justin Nelson’s Unique Approach To Hiring the Right People

His twenty-person team manages billions of dollars in client assets, and Nelson needs the best on his team to get results for J.P. Morgan’s discerning clientele.

Most managers would focus on hiring finance graduates from elite-tier universities, but Justin Nelson takes a different approach. “When I’m out looking to hire people, you don’t need to be a finance major. We actually appreciate people with different backgrounds — you just need the raw skills. Everything else we can teach you on the job,” he says.

As a Chemistry and Economics major, he knows how well an unconventional educational background can serve financial professionals. Hiring people with diverse backgrounds and experiences has been a tremendous asset for Nelson’s team, although he acknowledges this hiring approach requires more nuance.

Navigating Generational Differences

Baby Boomers and Gen X still make up the bulk of senior finance positions, but that won’t be the case for long. Nelson is acutely aware of the generational shifts occurring in the workforce, particularly with Millennials and Gen Z rising through the corporate ranks. “Younger generations are very focused on experiences and work-life balance. They care about the quality of work they create and want to be very focused when they are in the office to enjoy time when they are away.”

Nelson’s management style reflects his understanding of these generational differences, which emphasizes flexibility and communication. “We go out of our way to spend time with our team members in and outside of the office to understand what’s important to them and ensure they get to know everyone on a personal level. ” he adds. By fostering a culture of understanding and adaptability, Justin ensures that his team remains engaged and motivated even as the workplace evolves.

Competing for Talent in a Changing Landscape

The rise of private equity firms and startups also makes talent acquisition a challenge for Justin Nelson. These firms have become significant competitors for talent, often attracting individuals who might have otherwise pursued careers in traditional banking. “My perception is that we are hiring from the same pool of talent as private equity and other alternative asset management firms,” he says.

Despite this competition, Justin remains confident in the value of traditional financial institutions like J.P. Morgan, particularly in providing the foundational skills and experiences that are crucial for long-term career success. “A lot of people will start at a bank to build core skills initially but our hope is that they stay with us for the long-term,” he explains. In his opinion, large banks like J.P. Morgan must keep up with employee expectations, making it more likely that talent will stick around for the long haul.

The Key to Success? Out-Of-the Box Leadership

Justin Nelson’s management style and team leadership at J.P. Morgan are a testament to the power of holistic thinking, adaptability, and a people-first approach to hiring. His ability to navigate the complexities of the financial industry while maintaining a strong, cohesive team is a key factor in his success. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, Nelson’s leadership will undoubtedly remain a guiding force for his team and the industry at large.

Published by: Khy Talara