With integrity, empathy and a commitment to lifelong learning the guiding principles in his life, alumnus and former associate professor at the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS), Dr Robert van Eyden, has, proverbially speaking, “been there, done that and earned the T-shirt” on multiple occasions. A role model par excellence, he is now set to expand his professional horizons by obtaining more positions on boards as a non-executive director or chairperson and considers writing a follow-up to his best-selling book, The Badass Trader. “Drawing on my experience as a successful CEO and my extensive knowledge of financial markets, I can make valuable contributions. In what I consider my fourth career, I will be taking on a blended role: serving as a business coach, trading coach, and full-time trader for me personally and for select clients.” Read more about his sterling career below.

Q: Briefly summarise your studies (including the qualifications you obtained) and your professional career, with special mention of specific highlights/milestones.

A: The results of a career aptitude test suggested that I should consider becoming a teacher, dentist or accountant. I decided to pursue a BCom in Accountancy at UP, and later on, I ironically ended up becoming an academic (teacher).

During my second year of the degree, I developed an interest in the stock market and flying to the point of considering becoming an airline pilot. Realising that I needed to make a change to align with my aspirations of becoming a stockbroker, I switched to a BCom in Business Economics (now known as Business Management), which included modules in financial management and investment management. Continuing on this path, I completed a BCom (Hons) in Business Economics while securing a junior assistant role in the Department of Business Economics.

Prof PWC de Wit noticed our mutual interest in the stock market and recommended that I should apply for the Junior Lecturer position, which unexpectedly launched my academic career. While lecturing on various business-related subjects such as business management and investment management and completing my MCom (with distinction), I also obtained pilot licences and the stockbroker qualification Csb (SA).

Encouraged by Prof De Wit, I pursued a DCom focused on the application of neural networks on the stock market, which was funded by a CSIR bursary. This programme required that I complete coursework in the USA owing to limited local expertise. Upon returning home, I was promoted to Senior Lecturer and quickly advanced to Associate Professor, becoming the youngest ever at that time. During this period, I published over 50 accredited works, both locally and internationally, which caught the attention of the JSE and top stockbroking firms. This led to potential job offers from these organisations.

In my second career, I worked as an analyst at reputable organisations such as RMB Asset Management. I eventually rose to the position of Director and Global Head of Research at Standard Bank. During my tenure there, I was able to secure numerous prestigious awards globally and locally.

Currently, I am in my third career. After being approached by a head-hunter for a CEO role at a stockbroking firm, I accepted the offer. This opportunity led to my appointment as CEO of FNB (Stockbroking and Portfolio Management) and ABSA (Stockbrokers and Portfolio Management), and then as CEO of two online trading platforms. Additionally, I also served as a council member at the University of Pretoria (UP), alongside being a director and board member at the SA Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM) before stepping down.

Q: To what extent did your studies at UP benefit you in your career and contribute to your success?

A: In my career outside of academia, I have worked in various roles, including analyst, head of research, and CEO. My degree in business management has been extremely valuable in managing businesses and leading teams. Courses in strategic management and production management were particularly beneficial in the early years when I was building and leading teams. Additionally, the financial management and investment management courses I completed during my undergraduate and postgraduate studies were crucial to my career.

Q: Why did you choose your particular degree course/major(s), and did it meet your expectations…or, in hindsight, should you have opted for something else?

A: After taking a career aptitude test, I initially decided to pursue an accounting degree. My parents, who did not have degrees themselves, agreed that becoming an accountant was a solid choice. However, I switched to Business Economics and eventually acquired a DCom in Financial Management, which proved to be the best decision for my career. This path launched me into finance and led me to manage numerous stockbroking firms. If given another chance, I might consider studying BSc Actuarial and Financial Mathematics owing to the strong connection between maths and finance today.

Q: As a UP and EMS alumnus, what makes you proud to be associated with UP?

A: I am proud to be associated with the UP as an alumnus of the Faculty of Economic Management Sciences. UP is renowned for its high academic standards, high reputation and innovative research. The diverse and inclusive environment, along with a robust alumni network, enhances both personal and professional growth. The University's commitment to community engagement, its state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on social responsibility further solidify its standing as a premier institution, making my affiliation with UP a source of great pride.

Q: Given your academic experience at UP, what advice can you pass on to current students? 

I advise current students to fully engage in their studies and take advantage of the University’s resources to achieve academic excellence. It is crucial to build a strong network with peers, professors and alumni for mentorship and career opportunities. In addition, it is important to actively participate in campus activities and seek out internships to gain practical experience.

Q: In the future, what are your professional/business/personal goals? What is your ultimate ‘dream job’?

A: I plan to expand my professional horizons by obtaining more positions on boards as a non-executive director or chairperson. Drawing on my experience as a successful CEO and my extensive knowledge of financial markets, I can make valuable contributions. In what I consider my fourth career, I will be taking on a blended role: serving as a business coach, trading coach and full-time trader for me personally and select clients. Additionally, I am considering writing a follow-up to my best-selling book, "The Badass Trader", which was published by Penguin Random House.

Q: Which business/trade-related publications (magazines/newspapers/blogs, etc) do you enjoy reading?

I read Business Day and Financial Mail locally and follow Moneyweb. Internationally, I read The Wall Street Journal prominently. Additionally, I listen to a couple of podcasts. My top three favourites are The Morgan Housel Podcast, Diary of a CEO and The Tim Ferris Show.

Q: What really inspires and motivates you personally?

A: The pursuit of continuous learning and growth truly inspires and motivates me. I find great satisfaction in expanding my knowledge and skills through formal education, reading or new experiences.

Additionally, making a positive impact on others - whether by helping someone solve a problem, providing support or contributing to a larger cause - deeply motivates me. The prospect of overcoming challenges and achieving goals, both big and small, fuels my drive.

Lastly, being surrounded by passionate, driven individuals who share a commitment to making a difference inspires me to strive for excellence in all that I do.

Q: What is your ‘compass’ in life that keeps you ‘on track’?

A: Integrity, empathy and a commitment to lifelong learning are the guiding principles in my life. These values shape my decisions and interactions, ensuring ethical behaviour, understanding and support for others, and a continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth.

In addition to these values, having clear long-term goals provides me with direction and purpose, helping me to stay focused and motivated in the face of challenges. This combination of values and goals acts as a reliable guide, keeping me aligned with my aspirations and principles.

Q: If you could have a face-to-face meeting with an inspiring person - in any domain - who sets an example for transforming the world and inspiring others to do the same, who would it be, and what would you like to discuss?

If I could have a face-to-face meeting with an inspiring person, it would be Warren Buffett. I want to discuss his principles of value investing and how he has consistently identified and nurtured successful companies over the decades. Additionally, I would be keen to learn about his approach to philanthropy and the rationale behind the Giving Pledge, where he has committed to giving away a sizeable portion of his wealth. Understanding his perspective on long-term thinking, risk management and ethical business practices would be incredibly valuable.

Q: Tell us more about yourself, including your likes/dislikes, strengths/weaknesses, and business/life philosophy.

A: I embrace the world around me, seeing challenges as opportunities to grow and setbacks as chances to learn and improve. By staying true to my values, being authentic and building meaningful connections, I aspire to lead a fulfilling and purposeful life.

In my business approach, I prioritise integrity, excellence, and innovation. I strive to surpass customer expectations with high-quality products and services. My employees are my greatest asset, and I foster a work environment that encourages growth, diversity and respect. I am committed to sustainable practices, aiming to minimise my environmental footprint and positively impact the communities I serve. Through collaboration, transparency and ethical behaviour, I seek to establish long-lasting, trusting relationships with mutual benefits for all involved.

Q: What are your hopes and aspirations for South Africa and its people?

A: I envision a future for South Africa where there is a more fair and just society. This includes providing quality education, healthcare and economic opportunities for all. I hope for considerable progress in reducing unemployment and poverty and for the creation of a strong economy that benefits every citizen.

Additionally, I hope for transparent and accountable governance that effectively addresses corruption and ensures justice for all. I also aspire to see a society that celebrates its diversity and promotes unity and social cohesion, where people from all backgrounds work together towards common goals.

Ultimately, my dream is for South Africa to be a place of peace, prosperity and opportunity for all its people.