Choose Paris Region’s Talents - The Story of Shanaz Rob
April 03, 2023
Paris Region is a destination where there are no limits to the skills and to Talents you’ll find in the Region. The Region’s high quality of life, excellent educational offer and opportunities for growth attracts many international Talents each year. For them Paris Region is the perfect place to thrive personally and professionally in an open and welcoming environment.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Shanaz Rob, CEO of S.R. Investment Partners, a Londoner who came to Paris Region in 2018. She told us how she came to the Paris Region for business and chose to stay and why she thinks the Paris Region is on its way to becoming the next global financial capital.
Tell us about your arrival in Paris Region
The first time I came to Paris Region, I was on my own and the first place I stayed was at the Le Royal Monceau. I had my driver waiting for me, who was very nice, and explained to me what French culture is and what to look out for.
My first meeting was with certain investment banking clients and Hedge funds whom I knew in London but who also worked in Paris. The first time I arrived, I realized it was full of culture and the lifestyle looked from the past but was truly vibrant.
Where did you choose to live and why?
I was staying at Le Royal Monceau for some time and right now, I am living between Paris and its Region, very close to Levallois Perret, but still in the 17tharrondisement.
This area is very calm compared to central Paris but has its own French charm. I think I have a great advantage living here being close both to Paris and Paris Region.
Tell us about your current job & what do you enjoy the most about working in Paris Region?
I am the CEO of my own global financial consultancy firm S.R. Investment Partners. Right after opening the London office, I also opened a Paris office because I saw lots of potential in this Region.
Place Vendôme became a sort of home to me. That’s the place where I started my business and met my first clients and still, this area is absolutely charming to me. It is busy and vibrant but also fabulous. I particularly love this mix.
What, according to you, are the perks of living in Paris Region?
This is a place of great culture and amazing architecture. I also had a sense of opportunity and challenges. I feel that I am always surrounded by pure beauty.
The cherry on top, pastries, and desserts are mind-blowing. Only here have I tried the best millefeuille in my life.
Your favorite spot?
Place Vendôme where our French domain, SAS S.R. Investment Partners was born.
There’s nothing more beautiful and powerful for me than this area.
What advice would you give to a newcomer to make the most of Paris Region?
Be curious, be brave, and don’t hesitate if you have an opportunity to discover something new in this Region.
What was a “good surprise" when you got here?
In 2018, when I just got here, I didn’t expect this place to be such a hidden gem. Everyone considers New York or London the financial capital of the world, but Paris Region has all the power to become the next one.
My team and I are trying to facilitate this process and make this happen very soon.
Now that you have been living in Paris Region, what stereotype do you believe to be wrong about the French?
There is a common stereotype that French people are a bit arrogant and reserved. I don’t believe that it is true. Maybe not everyone opens up to you immediately but once you know a French person, she or he shows good nature and a great sense of humor.
I also believe that one should not behave and be something they are not, be open, be happy, and smile whatever the mood of the person you are talking to!
Do you want to learn more about life in Paris Region? Choose Paris Region's Settle In guide is an excellent resource for newcomers and expats to be, as it includes essential information on how to get a visa, find accommodation, and register for healthcare. Additionally, the guide provides tips on how to make the most of and enjoy everything the Paris Region has to offer!
Choose Paris Experts
Olivier Allegret
Head of Client SolutionsExpert