Amir Zada

How did CLS get you ready for the world of work?
CLS being at the forefront of the City of London, shaped who I am today with regards my career. It ultimately made me proud to have been educated at what it is, the best school in London.

What was your first job?
My first proper job was an internship at JP Morgan in Investment Banking which I achieved due to being a Freemason directly related to being at CLS. 

Your biggest professional achievement?
I’ve been able to travel to the farthest reaching, remotest and probably most dangerous places in the world due to the nature of my work. Working in War Zones and negotiating directly with their Governments during those times. For example North Korea, Pyongyang, to negotiate with Kim Jong Un and his Cabinet.

Your most challenging professional moment?
Due to the above there have been signifiant challenges, being detained for longer periods of time than I’d rather (to put it lightly).

What inspires and motivates you at work?
At this age, I look back at what I’ve achieved and changed in the world fondly, so the chance to continue and look back again in another 30/40 years motivates me further.

One piece of advice for pupils and other Old Citizens about getting into your profession?
The world is different now, so the manners by which I came up and performed no longer exist or probably aren’t acceptable anymore! One piece of advice would be, believe in yourself. You’ll be knocked down, either verbally or physically, but stay true to you. Believe in what you can achieve.