SEI

Office address: 130 King Street West, Suite 2810 Toronto, Ontario M5X 1E3, Canada 
Website: www.seic.com/en-ca  
Year established: 1968 
Company type: Investment services provider 
Employees: 5,000 
Expertise: Investment processing, fund processing, and investment management 
Parent company: SEI USA 
CEO and key people: Ryan Hicke, CEO 
Financing status:

SEI is a global provider of technology and investment solutions. It offers a range of investment processing, asset management, and operational products and services to a diverse range of clients. The company’s clientele includes banks, insurance companies, wealth management firms, government financial regulators, and ultra-high-net-worth families. 

Apart from Canada, SEI has offices in Ireland, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, South Africa, and the UAE. Its corporate headquarters is located in Oaks, Pennsylvania. 

History of SEI 

Formerly known as Simulated Environments Inc., SEI was founded in 1968 by Alfred P. West, Jr, who also served as the firm’s chairman and CEO. The company was focused on training bank loan officers with computer-based commercial credit simulators.  

Over the years, SEI has expanded its services to include mutual fund accounting, distribution solutions, and investment operations. The company pioneered goals-based investment in 2003. SEI continues to innovate, with notable expansions in the UK market and acquisitions aimed at enhancing its presence in the family office services space and technology platforms. 

Products and services of SEI 

SEI offers a diverse range of products and services, including: 

  • Operations: business process outsourcing and data management to enhance client efficiency and performance 
  • Asset management: customized wealth management solutions and outsourced investment management programs 
  • Technology solutions: enterprise platform solutions addressing complex business challenges across various segments 
  • Investment processing: comprehensive services for wealth and investment management, including fund administration and information analytics 
  • Cybersecurity services: advanced cybersecurity measures to protect client data and operations 

Culture at SEI 

SEI fosters a culture of innovation and creativity, partly inspired by art installations in its workspaces. The company values bold and brave thinking, encouraging a collaborative environment where diverse talent and ideas thrive. SEI's commitment to its employees' growth and development is evident in its team-oriented approach and client-first focus. 

About SEI SEO Ryan Hicke 

Ryan Hicke was named CEO of SEI in June 2022. Prior to his appointment, he served as the company’s chief information officer and head of the technology unit. He also held the role of managing director in the firm’s wealth management business in the UK.  

Under Hicke's leadership, SEI has emphasized delivering innovative and client-focused solutions in the financial services sector. He has also established a culture of continuous improvement, aligning SEI with the latest industry trends. Hicke's strategic focus on digital transformation and global expansion has been key in reinforcing the company's position as a leader in investment processing and management. His approach ensures SEI's continued growth and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market. 

Future at SEI 

SEI is positioned for continued growth and innovation. The company's strategic investments in research and development, technology infrastructure, and acquisitions signal its commitment to staying at the forefront of the financial services industry. SEI's focus on client-centric solutions and embracing change ensures its relevance and leadership in the evolving financial landscape. 

US yields at highest since November enticing opportunist buyers

Despite negative sentiment, some investors are seeing potential

Behavioural biases in advisor-client relationships may be worse now, study reveals

SEI Canada research shows common biases and how volatility exacerbates them

CapIntel reveals platform partnership with SEI Canada

Digital tech platform empowers third-party advisors to deliver better outcomes for clients

Former SEI asset management distribution leader to run IFIC

Andy Mitchell becomes president and CEO of Canada's investment industry body with more than 30 years of experience

SEI appoints new head of asset distribution

SEI veteran's expertise and experience will be crucial in expanding Canadian strategic partnerships

In a world of turmoil, focus on what you can control says SEI Canada

Director of solutions, Anne Hoare, shares her take on the current market conditions and the options that investors and their FAs may be weighing

Be the thermostat not the thermometer, advisors told

Behavioural finance expert explains how advisors can add value through regulating the temperature of their client conversations

SEI Canada making changes to fund lineup

Firm planning launch of new units, closures to numerous fund classes

Lower taxes for the wealthy are not good for the economy says study

Economic growth and unemployment are not helped by cutting taxes for the rich according to an academic analysis

Why it's vital to ensure clients are compensated for risk

Managing client expectation is crucial task given low-return environment