The Enigma Factor

“Fortunately for me, you and I work in the same vicinity so having the meeting here actually makes more sense, more relaxed and private. This first meeting, of what I hope will be many, will barely satisfy your curiosity. I can see all the questions racing through your mind. My suggestion is that you demonstrate your patience, which I know you have. I can tell you though; you have a bright future, my boy, whatever your choices. I am hoping that over time I can convince you to join our firm. I think you would be a good fit.”

            “You’re right, sir. I have lots of questions,” Jacob continued, conveying no panic in his voice.

            He also filed away for now the hotel and airline ticket issue. He would think about that later.

            “I would like to know who you are and what is this company? Why me? How you got my identity information?”

            “Those, of course, are the obvious questions. Let me provide some background that may help, though likely not enough for your bright mind.” Otto chuckled some then continued.

            “Ronnie, Ltd., is a part of a much larger organization that the original partners established near the close of World War II. This particular entity deals with our wealthier customers in the States for investments and financial endeavors. The Headquarters of our larger organization is in Switzerland. With that country’s financial discretion and neutrality, I suspect this doesn’t surprise you. Different branches we have established in key markets include finance, investments trading, information and technology, and real estate practices. Our clients cover the whole realm of the higher, powerful echelon, as it were.

            “We are, as I think you say here in the states, a family-controlled business. Our interests in you are primarily your abilities in technology, programming and security. Our business focuses on keeping our clients in balance.”

            Watching Jacob for a reaction and finding none, he continued. “Your abilities could fill a gap that I have noticed exists in our organization. Technology seems to be the way of the future. Though I have personally had experience in information gathering and security layers, it is not at the level of someone younger, like you. Others in the organization have reviewed your profile and believe you may fit. We are a cautious, tight knit group though, and require some levels of commitment before extending offers or fully opening the drapes.”

            As Otto provided that background, Jacob’s mind was trying to categorize the organization. The broad brush 30 thousand foot level overview was interesting but very vague. Certainly not the details he needed for clear understanding such as origin, charter, and competitors. He couldn’t decide if this was a firm that would be valuable to his career, but the global reach and areas mapped to his long range goals. Without a doubt, this man would give nothing away unintended, but two could play at that game.

            “So are you saying, essentially, that you are an investment firm for global customers? Or are you more nefarious in your objectives?” Jacob asked.

            “Nefarious, as a whole, would not be our prime objective, but rather the other end of the spectrum. Our clients are sometimes part of the rich and spoiled ranks that need to be reminded of humanity in order to retain their wealth. Greed, we believe, is singularly undesirable. We offer a full range of investment management services. Does that help to clarify?”

            Otto chuckled with a sudden twinkle in his intense blue eyes. “Well, our meeting regrettably is drawing to an end. I am glad we have now met and are measuring ourselves against each other. I would like to meet next week at the same time. I will have some more things to show you, answer more questions which you will of course have lined up, and perhaps if you have interest, a bit of a testing exercise. How does that sound? Say, starting at noon for the entire afternoon if your schedule will permit.” Otto rose and clapped Jacob on the back. He escorted him down the hallway.

            “I will try to arrange my schedule for the entire afternoon next week. I’m sure I’ll have questions after I think about our discussion. It was nice to meet you and thank you again for the tickets to DEFCON and the t-shirt. Sometime I will relate the odd experience during that trip. Perhaps you will have an opinion to share,” Jacob stated, while clearly focusing on Otto’s face for any hint of his knowledge of what had occurred.

            “Sounds interesting. I look forward to it.” Otto’s comment revealed nothing.

            As they approached Haddy’s desk, he said, “Haddy, please block my calendar next Wednesday afternoon for another meeting with Jacob.”

            “Yes, sir. Nice meeting you, Jacob. Lunch will be similar unless you have other preferences?” she graciously asked.

            “It was delicious and included all my favorites. You must know me fairly well,” he said, trying to see if she revealed anything.

            “I find that people enjoy good food that is not too filling during the workweek. I am glad I chose well,” Haddy said, without missing a beat. “Enjoy your week, sir.”