As Head of Singapore Wealth at BlackRock, Dennis Quah leads a team dedicated to delivering investment solutions in Singapore. His postgraduate studies at SMU proved to have provided him with invaluable insights and network to grow his career in a dynamic industry almost 20 years ago.
“My foray into asset management was purely by chance,” Dennis recalls. “It was through my postgraduate studies at SMU that I was given an opportunity in asset management industry. Through the programme’s internship, I landed a job in Schroders in 2007, and the rest, as they say, is history.”
Beyond this career pivot, Dennis has developed a passion for the industry over the years especially during his time at BlackRock. “Helping people make informed investment decisions can meaningfully improve their financial – and even emotional – well-being. Being on the manufacturing side of the industry has given me deep insights into the complexity and human considerations involved in managing a portfolio.”
The SMU MWM: broadening perspectives and unlocking opportunities
Dennis describes his Master’s in Wealth Management (MWM) at SMU from 2007 to 2008 as the best investment he ever made, crediting it for expanding his perspective on finance.
“As a young financial advisor, I had a narrow view of the finance industry. The MWM programme deepened my understanding of the industry, its key players, and the products that deliver outcomes for investors.” The programme also opened doors to greater impact beyond individual advising, allowing him to shape investment strategies at a platform level.
Beyond technical knowledge, SMU provided something equally valuable: a network of peers, industry experts, and mentors when he just entered the industry. “SMU’s Wealth Management programme played a crucial role in shaping my approach to asset management. The relationships I built have continued to support and guide me throughout my career.”
Leading BlackRock Singapore’s Wealth business
Now leading BlackRock Singapore’s Wealth division, Dennis applies the strategic thinking and leadership skills he acquired throughout his education and career to help drive the firm’s success in the region.
“As one of the largest asset management firms in the world, we have a meaningful seat at the global table of investors,” he explains. “Our fiduciary role allows us to provide clients with investment opportunities that suits them, leveraging intelligence derived from our global platform and expertise.”
However, he believes one of BlackRock’s biggest strengths is its people – “Beyond our financial expertise, we attract some of the most talented and hardworking professionals. Our culture of doing the right thing for clients runs throughout the organisation.”
Navigating sustainable investing with a research-driven approach
In 2024, BlackRock has surpassed USD 1 trillion in sustainable assets under management.
The transition to a low-carbon economy is one of five mega forces that we track. To support investors in this evolving space, BlackRock takes a research-driven approach “We help clients identify opportunities through economic analysis and advanced tools to assess how the low-carbon transition is unfolding.”
Expanding BlackRock’s presence in Asia
Looking ahead, Dennis is focused on helping more and more investors in Singapore to achieve their financial goals.
“As a fiduciary, we are committed to providing investment opportunities optimal for our clients’ needs by leveraging BlackRock’s extensive insights and capabilities.”
Another key priority is building and retaining top talent: “We aim to build the best distribution team in the industry – one that is client-focused, collaborative, and passionate about what we do.”
A journey shaped by learning and leadership
From an unexpected start in asset management to leading BlackRock’s Singapore Wealth division, Dennis’s story is a testament to the power of education, adaptability, and strategic leadership. His SMU experience broadened his perspective, equipped him with essential skills, and built a strong foundation for success in the industry.
For aspiring professionals, his advice is clear: “Invest in your own learning, build meaningful relationships, and stay open to new opportunities. The right education can transform your career in ways you never imagined.”