There are few people in this world who truly wield the ability to be as intelligent as Michael was, while also maintaining such warmth and humility. Michael always made the entire team feel involved, ensured that no idea was considered a bad idea, and fostered a positive intellectual curiosity within the portfolio construction team. He was truly a gentleman to work with, and I miss working with him immensely.However, Michael’s legacy will absolutely continue at Mercer, as his fingerprints are evident on many key pieces of work.

Similar to other comments my colleagues have shared, not only was Michael a pleasure to work with professionally, but he was arguably even better to be around socially. Conversations with him could go in any direction, but were always guided by Michael’s undeniable intellect across a wide array of topics—or by his unrelenting optimism for West Ham. I shared a similar level of uncompromising optimism for England Cricket and Arsenal, which perhaps explains why we got on so well.

Following Michael’s tragic passing, it has served as a reminder for us all not to take anything for granted. For Michael’s sake, I will try my hardest to live by this lesson. I send my most heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family. I hope this memorial book conveys how revered, respected, and loved Michael was professionally.

Max Becker