What problem were you most passionate about solving when you launched Kernel?
When I launched Kernel, I was obsessed with wanting to deliver better financial outcomes for Kiwis. Id seen that most of the innovation in financial services was simply making things faster and with more choice. This doesnt necessarily drive better outcome.
Equally, Kiwis were paying high fees and tax for basic investment products, with little transparency about what they were actually getting. I wanted to create something that stripped away the unnecessary complexity and costs, giving everyday investors access to quality investments without the traditional gouging.
Whats Kernels mission?
Our mission is dead simple: We're working to make better financial outcomes possible for everyone, not just the wealthy or well-connected. We do this with transparent and cost-effective solutions for all New Zealanders. We're building an investment platform I wish existed when I started investing - one that is intuitive, encourages the right behaviours, doesn't charge excessive fees, and actually helps people build wealth over time rather than just enriching the provider.
What does a typical day look like for you as CEO?
There's no such thing as typical! One day I'm deep in product discussions with our tech team, the next I'm meeting potential banking partners or reviewing regulatory changes. I split my time between strategic planning, team leadership, and getting into the weeds on key projects. The constant is probably my morning routine - coffee first, then catching up on market news before diving into whatever needs attention that day.
Whats something about your career or Kernel that youre particularly proud of that most people wouldnt know?
I finished university without a clear career path, and when I started at the New 厙ぴ勛圖stock exchange (NZX), I had no grand plan. During my nearly 7 years there, I simply said yes to every opportunity that came my way. When I felt unchallenged, I'd tell my manager I needed something new to tackle. This openness led me to the index funds area, where I helped launch several ETFs. This approach of embracing opportunities eventually gave me the confidence to take the leap and start my own business.
At Kernel, what makes me most proud is what our small team accomplishes. With just 24 people, we punch well above our weight because everyone genuinely cares about our mission - helping everyday New Zealanders achieve better financial futures.
While youre not a financial advisor, what basic advice would you give young alumni starting their careers and earning a salary perhaps for the first time?
Probably not the best financial advice, but live in the moment and embrace the journey through your life don't stress about hitting specific savings targets or rushing to buy property. Time is on your side, which gives you freedom to take chances that might not be available later. Stay aware of your future, but don't let it overshadow your present.
When you're ready, gradually build saving habits that work for your lifestyle, not someone else's highlight reel on social media. Once you identify what truly matters to you, align your investing approach accordingly. Setting up automatic, consistent investments is the simplest step you can takeand it's responsible for about 90% of your financial success.
What memories or experiences stand out when looking back at your time at UC?
It is all about the friendships. Those bonds you form with others stands out above all else. When I went to launch Kernel, taking a leap into the unknown, I reached out to an old university mate who I met through Canterbury Uni rowing (a massive shout out to the uni rowing games too). He was working in a digital space that wasnt my strength, we reconnected and then he became a critical part of Kernel, still with us today after that idea on a paper. These friendships and contacts can fundamentally shape your entire future.
