Goldman Sachs MDs Share How Unique Passions Fuel Career Success

Six newly promoted managing directors at Goldman Sachs, known as the 2025 MD class, have highlighted how their diverse backgrounds and passions outside of finance have significantly influenced their professional journeys. From filmmaking to military service, these leaders illustrate how experiences beyond the workplace can enhance insights and resilience in a high-pressure environment.

In total, Goldman Sachs promoted 638 individuals to managing director, a position just below partnership. Among them are a filmmaker, a former Marine, and a stand-up comic, each bringing unique perspectives that contribute to their roles on Wall Street. These personal pursuits are not just hobbies but integral to their leadership styles and approaches to work.

Life Lessons from Unlikely Experiences

For example, Michael Brill, who heads capital formation for hybrid capital in Goldman’s asset and wealth management division, is a pediatric cancer survivor. He emphasizes the importance of philanthropy, shaped by his personal experience. Brill serves as chair of the Board of Associates for the Ronald McDonald House New York, an organization that supports families dealing with pediatric illnesses. He stated, “My past experiences and work with the RMH-NY have shaped who I am and how I operate — not only personally, but also professionally.”

Running is another passion that has been pivotal for Myriam Coulibaly, managing director on the Americas equity research management team. She states that running has taught her to embrace discomfort and focus on the process rather than just the outcome. “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,” she noted.

Creative Skills Enhance Financial Acumen

The ability to communicate effectively is another skill honed through extracurricular activities. Lizzie Dove, a senior analyst in global investment research, previously performed stand-up comedy. She believes her experience on stage has improved her ability to engage with clients and present complex information clearly. “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 explained.

Meanwhile, Joe Hall, a private wealth advisor and filmmaker, has successfully merged storytelling with his financial career. His feature film, “The Road to Galena,” has won awards at international film festivals, enhancing his ability to convey complex financial concepts in relatable terms to clients. “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,” Hall stated.

Academic and Military Foundations

Academically, Jim Schneider, a senior semiconductor analyst, holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering. He believes that his diverse educational background allows him to navigate both technical and financial landscapes effectively. “Having a well-rounded educational background has been incredibly helpful in being able to ‘context switch,’ navigate career transitions, and bring a broader perspective to my work,” Schneider noted.

Finally, Bering Tsang, a managing director in healthcare mergers and acquisitions, credits his time in the Marine Corps for instilling core values such as integrity and teamwork. He emphasizes the importance of building trust within teams to tackle complex challenges. “Great teams consist of great individuals who act as if they have to shoulder more than their own weight. If everyone believes that, the team becomes pretty powerful,” Tsang explained.

These leaders at Goldman Sachs exemplify how diverse experiences can contribute to professional success. Their stories reflect the notion that life outside work not only shapes individual character but also enhances workplace performance, fostering a more engaged and resilient workforce.