Michael was a wonderful colleague and we all miss him enormously. He was always so positive, brought his own perspective to discussions and was very sensible in the way he went about everything. He was someone who you would gladly trust to make a considered good decision – professional to the core, but also with little ego or self-admiration.

I always enjoyed Michael’s company – to be honest at times I was overawed by his intellect though!! We shared dinner together on the night before the Amsterdam GIF earlier this year – almost every day I feel grateful to have spent that time with him.

It has been a real shock to lose Michael, as I’m absolutely certain it has for so many at Mercer and clearly his family. I’m sorry for all those who were much, much closer to Michael than I. It is hard losing someone so young.

The lesson for me is to pause and appreciate more. Michael had peace, success and happiness, and these are things that we all ultimately want.

From me and from Mercer, my sincerest condolences to his family.