An Interview with Paul Howland

What do you do for Abacus Trust Group?

I am a Director for Abacus Trust Company Limited, our Isle of Man based fiduciary and advisory business and I joined the company in April 2020.

My role is wide-ranging and includes responsibility for a client portfolio, local Board contributions as well as working closely with Abacus Trust Group's key intermediary and professional partners.

I have spent over 25 years working with high-net-worth private clients and assisting with their wealth structuring and succession needs.

Prior to joining Abacus Trust Group, I spent many years at a previously bank owned fiduciary business that became an independent.

What do you love most about your role?

I love that every single client and family are different and their structuring, needs and objectives must reflect this.

There really is no 'one size fits all' approach within the fiduciary world and this leads to varied and interesting opportunities.

What has been your greatest achievement?

If I'm honest, I've never really thought about work in this way. My approach has always been about completing a task or project to the best of my ability.

Away from work, the local junior football team that I coach recently won their cup competition. Does that count?

I don't think Guardiola or Klopp need be worried for the time being though…

How has your business adapted in light of COVID-19?

I joined the company after the Isle of Man had gone into its first national lockdown in spring last year. I was instantly impressed with the seamless rollout and delivery of work-from-home technology and solutions.

I think most professionals are missing the previous in person meetings so the daily round of Teams and Zoom calls are perhaps the biggest change.

Why did you join PCD?

I was introduced to PCD by a local contact around four years ago.

Over this period, it has proven to be a great way to meet new contacts and seek out new opportunities.

Many of my Abacus & Moores Rowland colleagues have been involved with PCD over the years, we subscribe as a group for its upcoming events and selection of content which we've had the pleasure of contributing towards.

Have you attended a PCD webinar? What did you think?

I have joined multiple webinars across the pandemic period.

They are always informative and with current challenges, provide a great way to catch up with contacts and meet new ones.

On a weekend, I am most likely found...

Stood at the side of that football pitch come rain, wind or shine. I do live on the Isle of Man!