Our Leaders

Nico is the Co-Founder, director and head of Business Development at Quintessence. Equipped with his Master of Science in Mathematics, he has spent his days primarily focused on providing quantitative and fundamental research solutions to investment professionals. He has 25 + years in the investment management industry and uses his love for abstract mathematics to understand the nuances of Fintech and help Quintessence solve the widely faced problems within the industry.  Nico believes kindness in the workplace is key to success, a tenet he lives out in the way he treats every person he interacts with. He's an avid reader and dabbles in carpentry - he always has a side project going on, if he doesn't it's because he is busy making homemade lasagnes for the entire company.

Des is our Co-founder, a director and is responsible for defining the product vision. He has a Bsc degree in physics and computer science which he couples with over 20 years of experience in the finance industry. His dedication, determination and industry knowledge allow him to manage the entire product development process while understanding the needs of our clients to help build a sustainable and efficient product. If he's not looking for new features or ways to better the Quintessence product, he's reading, focusing on science and actively avoiding politics in order to maintain a serene outlook on life. Or he's playing golf.

Allie is the centre of Quintessence's Implementation and Client Operations, ensuring that the company not only runs smoothly, but that the best systems are implemented for our clients' investment process needs. Allie holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) in Information Systems but is more than just brains. Allie has the biggest heart with a special passion for social causes especially those involving animals, a drive for growth and excellence and the ability to teach and guide team members with impeccable kindness and passion.

Ludwich is the head of Data Engineering and holds a postgrad in Business Administration. He is passionate about developing and empowering people and believes that if you look after your people well, they will look after your clients. His experience is centred around the building of highly effective teams within operational structures that enable an organisation to grow and flourish. Ludwich is a family man at heart, enjoys spending time with his wife and kids and staying fit through adrenaline sports.

Lawrence heads up the software development team at Quintessence. He and his team work closely to produce a highly capable product for our amazing clients and are constantly looking for ways to improve on it. Lawrence has over 25 years’ experience in software development which he has gained both locally, in South Africa, and internationally in the UK. His experience and wealth of knowledge affords him the ability to guide and teach the development team at Quintessence.  When he's not at work, Lawrence loves spending time in nature with his wife and daughter. He is passionate about his spiritual life and actively practices various forms of yoga and meditation

John heads up the Quintessence client solutions where his knowledge and determination to turn information into action helps clients leverage the power of Quintessence throughout their business. He holds a Business Science degree as well as being a CFA charter holder. He previously worked for Aylett & Co. Fund Managers running their operations and IT. In his downtime, you’ll typically find John at the climbing gym, hiking in a mountain somewhere or running many kilometres.