Member Spotlight: Matthew Williams
Meet Matthew R. Williams
Matthew grew up in Kenilworth in Warwickshire and moved to London after university, beginning his career as a forensic accountant before progressing into senior roles across the insurance sector. He is currently a Divisional CFO at a global insurance company and a Chartered Accountant with an MBA from the University of Cambridge. Matthew serves as the New York Chapter President of Chartered Accountants Worldwide and sits on the President’s Advisory Council for the Society of Insurance Financial Management. He is also a board member of the St George’s Society of New York, supporting its charitable mission and helping strengthen its work across the British Commonwealth and New York communities. He has traveled to more than 60 countries across all seven continents and trained in fencing for 15 years.
How did you get involved with SGSNY?
I first learned about the Society through two past Presidents, Marc Walby and David Drinkwater. We are all Chartered Accountants, and through them I became aware of the Society’s long history and the impact of its charitable work in New York. Their involvement encouraged me to look into it further, and once I understood the mission, I knew I wanted to support it.
What’s your favorite part of being an SGSNY member?
My favorite part is the charitable element. Being able to give back to the British, Commonwealth, and wider New York communities is something I value deeply. Hosting a black-tie ball for the Society last year and again this October has been a real privilege. Bringing people together in support of SGSNY's work has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement.
How has being part of SGSNY helped you as a newer New Yorker (personally and/or professionally)?
I am currently a Divisional CFO at an insurance company, and previously worked as a forensic accountant, so SGSNY has helped broaden my professional network in a very natural way. It has introduced me to people across different industries and backgrounds, many of whom I would not have met otherwise. Personally, it has given me a sense of belonging at a time when I was still finding my feet in the city. I have also introduced several friends and classmates from my time at Cambridge to the Society, which has helped them build their own connections in New York.
What’s your favorite place in NYC? Favorite food or meal you’ve had since moving here?
One of my favorite places is Central Park when I am walking our Westie, Tweed. It is one of the few moments in the city where everything feels calm. As for food, I would say the Orsay on the Upper East Side. It is a French restaurant where I have hosted a number of charity black tie dinners over the years, and it has become a place I always enjoy returning to.
If you have any questions regarding membership, please don't hesitate to contact the team at membership@stgeorgessociety.org or visit our Membership Page for more information.