John O.
About John O.
John O. is the Head of Product for Asia Pacific at HSBC Alternatives, bringing extensive experience in alternative investments and corporate law. His career includes roles at major law firms and HSBC, complemented by a strong educational background in law and management.
Work at HSBC
Currently, John O. serves as the Head of Product for Asia-Pacific at HSBC Alternatives, a position he has held since 2023. Prior to this role, he worked at HSBC as the Regional Lead for Asia Pacific in Alternative Investments from 2020 to 2023. His tenure at HSBC also includes a significant period as Associate General Counsel from 2014 to 2021 in London, where he contributed to various legal aspects of the bank's operations.
Education and Expertise
John O. has a diverse educational background. He studied at the University of Cambridge, where he earned a degree in Modern Languages, focusing on French and Russian, from 1996 to 2000. He also obtained a Master’s Degree in Management from Durham University Business School between 2011 and 2014. Additionally, he completed his legal studies at City, University of London, earning a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PgDL) in 2003, followed by the Legal Practice Course (LPC) at BPP Law School in 2004.
Background
Before entering the financial sector, John O. began his career in law. He worked as a Trainee Solicitor and Solicitor at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer from 2004 to 2006, and later as a Solicitor at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP from 2006 to 2011. He also served as a Senior Associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP from 2011 to 2014. His legal background enhances his current role in alternative investments, where he has experience across multiple asset classes.
Professional Experience
John O. has extensive experience in various sectors, including law and finance. He worked as a Teacher and Head of Sports at Elizabeth Moir School in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 2000 to 2002. His legal expertise is complemented by his experience in corporate law, joint ventures, and mergers & acquisitions, which are critical in his current role in alternative investments.