Biggson

Hi All,
I am currently in London, being offered a Job in Abu Dhabi Investment Authority.

With a Mathematics PhD, I am currently a quantitative analyst in one of the banks in Canary Whraf (London). The head hunter sets up a final discussion with him on Thursday. I am still not sure whether the move is rational or not but I belive it is a good move in my career, working for the world biggest soverign fund.

Is there anyone working in Abu Dhabi Investment Authority here?
What is the culture within the organisation?
What salary should I set as benchmark to the headhunter( I have 5 years experience as a heavy quant and my degrees are from the very top uni in Britain)

How expensive is the lifestyle?
What are the benefits I should request( Car, house, etc...)
Please help, this is a life decision into an unknown world to me.

I am 35 with one kid and not married yet.
Concerning visa application, I have a French and British passport(any difference?)

Please help
Biggy

Millhouse

Dammit, if you hadn't named the company I would have been able to give you some very honest answers...

Anyway, shoot for the stars. ADIA will do you no harm.

Oh, and you need to get married.

weescot

There are ADIA people posting on BE - I can give one a nudge to PM you.

As for the package and benefits, labour laws here state what has to be in there eg housing allowance, schooling et. It is all pretty standard - just how much is up for negotiation. ADIA also have some properties for staff if you don't want to look for your own. They will take care of your visa etc.

Yes, you do need to get married, especially if you have a child as you will run into difficutlies enrolling at school/getting healthcare/visas for partner and child if you are not married.

There are loads of other threads on lifestyle costs - do a wee search.

Biggson

EmiratesMillhouse,
Please send me your email and phone number to <snip>.
I do seriously need help from you. I do need information in order to make the right decision and to negotiate well.
I was only approach last week and yet next week I need to decide.
Please get back to me.
Thanks
Biggy

Biggson

Hi Weescot,
Thanks for your reply, what does BE stand for.
I am desperatly in need of information.
Below is my email, please connect me eith the people in ADIA.
<snip>

Thanks
Biggy

Desert Shaikh

Nothing less than 80,000 DHS a month. Accomodation is expensive and general cost of living in high. The move needs to be worthwhile. Dont undersell yourself.

Bob

BE= British Expats...errr...fairly obvious given the website...

Biggson

Thanks all,
Do I need to separately negotiate the apartment or is it included in your suggested 80 K ?
Is there anyone working for Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in the room?

I only have 3 days to wrap up the deal.

Thanks for the initial thoughts.

weescot

I've sent you a PM (personal message)

ctfc

ADIA is very much a McKinsey house so expect McKinsey type culture with a bit of Goldmans thrown in and corresponding salary. Your headhunter should give you a very good indication of package for your level - phone another one or two to validate it's the right range.

Biggson

Do you mean same salary in nominal terms but without income tax?
Please illuminate me further.

Thanks

Biggy

TGFKASE

Sorry, have just had a chuckle at the fact that a Quantitive Analyst seems unable to analyse his package....

Mischief Queen

They will provide you with the option of accommodation or allowance. Take the accommodation - current apts are a great location and have swimming pool, squash courts, parking etc (they will show you before you have to decide). The package will be good (more than fair imo). I was moved in and furnished (with furniture allowance) within 2 weeks of landing in AD... not possible with many companies here I can tell you!

I say go for it.

raoul654321

any one there working @ ADIA??

rgds

raoul

raoul654321

need to have some help on the salary