Sir Patrick Bijou is an experienced investment banker and fund manager with more than three decades of experience in global finance.
Born in Georgetown, Guyana and raised in the United Kingdom, he built his career through steady determination and a deep interest in economic systems. After graduating with degrees in business administration, economics and international banking, he moved to New York and secured his first job at Wells Fargo on Wall Street. There he learned about the discipline of structured financing and the fast pace of the trading floor.
His career has spanned major financial institutions including Deutsche Bank, Merrill Lynch, Credit Agricole CIB, Calyon, Lloyds Bank and BlackRock, where he served as a director. He became known for his expertise in debt capital markets, derivatives, private placement and fund management. One of his first milestones was helping to set up the MTN and private placement desk at Lloyds Bank, increasing the number of self-led deals from 4% to 32%.
Sir Patrick also founded The Tiger Fund and later founded Blackhorse International and Westpac Trading FZE, leading both with a focus on strategy, stability and long-term planning. His work spans the UK, US, UAE, Singapore and beyond. He is widely regarded as a global expert on private placement programs and has written best-selling books on the subject.
Sir Patrick was knighted for his services to banking and philanthropy and continues to support humanitarian causes, from building irrigation systems in Sierra Leone to providing shelter for vulnerable children. His career reflects a consistent belief: finance should create progress, not just profit.
Questions and answers with Sir Patrick Bijou
You moved to the UK from Guyana at a young age. How did your early life shape your interest in finance?
I grew up in the UK after my father won a scholarship and this gave me a great respect for education and discipline. From a young age, I was curious about how economies work. When I studied business administration and later economics and international banking, this curiosity became a real path. It taught me that numbers aren’t just numbers. They tell a story about people, stability and opportunity.
What led you to Wall Street and your first role at Wells Fargo?
During my studies I moved to New York for 14 years. My first role was at Wells Fargo. I started as a private banker and later moved into trading. It was intense, but it taught me persistence. I often say, “If you can remain stable as markets change, you will make better decisions.” These years laid the foundation for everything that followed.
You later worked in several large institutions. What were some defining moments?
Each institution taught me something different. At Lloyds Bank I helped set up the MTN and the private placement desk. We increased the number of self-led deals from 4% to 32%, and that showed how structure and small adjustments can change results at scale. At Credit Agricole CIB and Calyon I worked on interest rate derivatives and structured products. At BlackRock, I gained a broader view of how global markets are connected.
You are considered an expert in private placement programs. How did this specialization develop?
It emerged from years of recognizing the gaps between capital needs and traditional financing routes. One way to overcome this was private placement. Over time I have developed strategies for governments, institutions and private clients. Later I wrote books about it because people wanted understandable explanations. Writing allowed me to share insights without the complexity that often scares people away.
They have founded several companies including Blackhorse International and Westpac Trading FZE. What inspired your move into leadership roles?
After decades in banking, I understood the importance of building something with a long-term vision. Leadership is not about noise; it’s about reliability. I have founded companies to create space for innovation and to build teams that can think beyond the immediate pressures. And because we operate in the UK, US, Singapore and UAE, we can spot global trends in real time.
Your work has also taken you into humanitarian missions. How does this relate to your career in finance?
Finance and humanitarian work are more closely linked than you think. I have seen how unstable economies can lead to political unrest. I once supported peace efforts during the genocides in Africa, and such experiences stay with you. I believe, “Success is not defined by wealth, but by contribution.” That’s why I support irrigation projects in Sierra Leone, children’s shelters in India and hospitals like Great Ormond Street.
Why do you often talk about narrowing the wealth gap?
Because the numbers are stark. The richest 1% owns almost half of the world’s wealth. When this gap widens, societies become unstable. Capitalism can help solve this problem if managed properly. I want people to realize that economic growth and social well-being do not have to be opposites.
What role does writing play in your work?
Writing started as a hobby. Over time it became a platform. Books like Private Placement Programs: The Holy Grail allow me to give clear explanations. I believe “you never stop learning,” and writing keeps me sharp while providing a resource for others.
What guidance would you share with future finance leaders?
Be steadfast. Be curious. And be aware that every decision has a human consequence. Finances are powerful, but they should be used responsibly. I always say, “There is always a way forward if we innovate responsibly.” This attitude has carried me through every challenge.
For more information about his work, see Sir Patrick Bijou.
