Bernard co-founded Investec Bank Plc in the late 1970s, marking the beginning of what would become a global financial institution. He served as Managing Director at Investec until his retirement in 2018.

Bernard moved to London in 1997 to lead Investec’s expansion beyond South African market. His leadership in the UK was characterized by strategic acquisitions that broadened Investec’s influence, including notable names like Allied Trust Bank, Carr Sheppards, and Guinness Mahon. Under his guidance, Investec’s footprint expanded to 8,000 employees across 14 countries, managing £125 billion in assets, and solidifying its presence with listings in Johannesburg and London. A defining aspect of Bernard’s leadership was his commitment to Investec’s culture and values, emphasizing a meritocratic approach where ideas could flow freely, irrespective of hierarchy.

Beyond the boardroom, Bernard’s personal interests, particularly in horse racing and football, mirrored his professional ethos of striving for excellence. His involvement in sports, especially the Investec Derby, underscored a blend of passion and strategic branding that helped elevate Investec’s profile on the global stage.