What has STEP done for you, individually, or as an organisation?

STEP has opened the doors to a new network of professionals around the world.

What is the most important thing STEP does, in your opinion?

STEP brings the best practitioners together at one table. Clients around the world recognise its qualifications as important quality benchmarks in our industry.

What made you decide to volunteer at STEP?

I like leading teams and bringing in new ideas such as the introduction of ‘digital presence’ for committee members, which was useful during the COVID-19 lockdown in Switzerland. STEP is a good platform for doing so. We have a great committee in Zurich and the work we do is useful and respected by our members.

What would you say to other members considering volunteering?

Give it a try and see how you like it. Keeping an open mind is always important.

Your branch has run some online events recently. How did they go, and do you have any recommendations to share?

Yes, we were quick to run online events, and they are going well. My recommendation is that the webinar is run on a reliable platform that you know well. Webinars have certainly increased in importance compared to physical events in our region.

Do you have any upcoming events to look out for? 

Last week we hosted Trustee investment complaints and litigation – a selection of case studies, and our next is What you’ve missed in 2020 - an update on recent developments for trusts and private banks on 3 February, followed by Application of the new law on trustees in Liechtenstein on 10 February. Later on, in June, we have our Introduction to trusts course.

What do you most like about your job, and what do you feel is most worthwhile?

Discovering new things every day, as well as the positive effects you can achieve when delivering high-quality service to your clients.

What would you say to a young person thinking of a career in this industry?

Staying curious and flexible is essential in this ever-changing industry. You also need to have reliable and competent partners.

What do you feel are the main challenges facing your organisation/practitioners at the moment, and how will you deal with them?

In my view it is the increasing regulatory framework, which can only be dealt with by embracing continuous education.

Which social media channels do you use and why?

I use LinkedIn and we also use it for Verein STEP. It’s currently one of the most reputable and professional social media channels.

Coming up:

• What you’ve missed in 2020 - an update on recent developments for trusts and private banks - 3 February;
• Application of the new law on trustees in Liechtenstein - 10 February;
• Introduction to trusts course - 1-2 June.

Roderik Strobl

Dr Roderik J P Strobl TEP is chair of STEP Zurich Centre