Goldman Sachs MDs Share Unexpected Journeys to Success

Six newly promoted managing directors at Goldman Sachs attribute their success to experiences beyond the finance sector. The 2025 MD class includes professionals with diverse backgrounds, such as filmmaking, military service, and stand-up comedy, highlighting the value of life lessons in the high-pressure environment of Wall Street.

These leaders assert that their passions outside of finance enhance their professional insights, improve client relationships, and foster resilience under stress. In conversations with Business Insider, members of this elite group shared how their unique experiences shaped their perspectives and leadership styles.

Transformative Experiences Beyond the Desk

The journeys of these new managing directors illustrate that Wall Street is not just a realm of uniform qualifications. For instance, Michael Brill, head of capital formation for hybrid capital in Goldman’s asset and wealth management division, is a pediatric cancer survivor. Brill serves as the chair of the Board of Associates for the Ronald McDonald House New York. This organization supports families of children battling serious illnesses. Brill emphasizes the importance of philanthropy, saying, “My past experiences and work with the RMH-NY have shaped who I am and how I operate — not only personally, but also professionally.” His commitment to mentorship and community service reflects a broader understanding of leadership that goes beyond financial success.

Another member, Myriam Coulibaly, runs to stay grounded. As the newly appointed global head of client engagement for equity research, she sees running as a metaphor for resilience. “Running has shown me that there will always be someone faster than you and someone slower than you,” she explains. Coulibaly emphasizes the importance of being present, stating, “When I’m struggling in a workout or race, I remind myself that it is just a moment in time, and the discomfort is temporary.”

Skills From Unlikely Pursuits

The skills gained from these diverse experiences extend into their professional lives. Lizzie Dove, a senior analyst in global investment research, draws from her background in stand-up comedy to enhance her communication skills. “Landing a joke with confidence in a concise way and communicating with ease in front of a crowd were invaluable lessons that I use every day,” she says. This ability to connect with audiences helps her deliver impactful messages, whether she is addressing investors or crafting research reports.

Filmmaker Joe Hall, another managing director, has found that his storytelling abilities are crucial in finance. Having directed award-winning films, Hall notes, “Storytelling has been a valuable skill in my Goldman work, helping to deliver complex financial data in terms and with context that is meaningful to clients.” His creative background allows him to present information in a way that resonates, making financial concepts more accessible.

Similarly, Jim Schneider, a senior semiconductor analyst with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, stresses the importance of a well-rounded educational background. He states, “Having a well-rounded educational background — not just in science and engineering but also in humanities — has been incredibly helpful.” This breadth of knowledge aids him in navigating the complexities of both technology and finance, allowing for a more holistic approach to problem-solving.

Lessons from Military Service

For Bering Tsang, a managing director in healthcare mergers and acquisitions, military service provided foundational lessons in integrity, empathy, and teamwork. Tsang, who served in the Marine Corps, believes these values are essential in building trust with clients and teams. “It’s about investing in them and going through shared experiences to sharpen individuals into a team focused on a shared objective,” he explains.

As they navigate the complexities of the financial world, these Goldman Sachs managing directors serve as examples of how life experiences beyond the office can profoundly impact leadership and professional development. Their stories reveal that success in finance is not solely defined by traditional metrics but also by the richness of life experiences that shape their perspectives and approach to challenges.