Stu Forbes

Professional Overview

Stu Forbes is a seasoned financial services executive with extensive expertise in the exchange-traded fund (ETF) industry. As the Head of ARK Invest, Europe, he oversees the firm's expansion and product development efforts across the European market. With a strong background in ETF product development, fund structuring, and legal compliance, Stu is well-positioned to drive ARK Invest's strategic initiatives and growth in the region.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Stu currently serves as the Head of ARK Invest, Europe, where he is responsible for leading the firm's expansion and product development efforts across the European market. In this role, he leverages his deep understanding of the ETF industry to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities, while ensuring regulatory compliance and strong client relationships.

Additionally, Stu is a Co-Founder of Rize ETF, an ARK Invest Europe venture, where he plays a crucial role in the development and launch of innovative ETF products tailored to the needs of European investors.

Career Progression

Prior to joining ARK Invest, Stu held the position of Head of ETF Product Development at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM), where he was instrumental in driving the firm's UCITS ETF product strategy and growth. Before that, he served as the Head of UCITS ETF Product Development and Fund Structuring at ETF Securities, where he played a pivotal role in the firm's product expansion and client engagement initiatives.

Earlier in his career, Stu gained valuable legal experience as a Funds Lawyer at SJ Berwin, where he advised on regulatory compliance and fund structuring matters. He also had a brief stint as a Field Researcher in the marine environment and coral reef conservation field at Frontier - The Society for Environmental Exploration.

Academic Background

Stu holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree, with a focus on corporate and financial law, from a reputable university. This academic foundation has provided him with a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing the financial services industry, which he has successfully applied throughout his career.

Areas of Expertise

• ETF product development and structuring

• UCITS ETF regulatory compliance

• Fund management and client relationships

• Strategic planning and business development

• Financial services industry trends and innovation

Professional Impact

During his tenure at LGIM and ETF Securities, Stu played a pivotal role in expanding the firms' UCITS ETF product offerings, driving significant asset growth and industry recognition. He has a proven track record of identifying and capitalizing on emerging market trends, resulting in the successful launch of innovative ETF products tailored to the evolving needs of European investors.

Stu's strong industry expertise, coupled with his collaborative leadership style, has enabled him to build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including regulators, asset managers, and institutional clients. This has positioned him as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the European ETF industry.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience in the ETF industry, strategic vision, and proven track record of success, Stu Forbes is well-equipped to lead ARK Invest's European expansion and drive the firm's growth in the region. His deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, product development expertise, and client-centric approach make him a valuable asset in the evolving European investment management landscape.