Smith & Williamson increases its Channel Island presence

Monday 18 July 2016

An investment management, accountancy and tax group, which dates back over a century, is expanding its Channel Islands' presence.

Smith & Williamson is already established in the Island, but that’s being enhanced by the creation of Smith & Williamson International Limited.

It’s been granted an investment business licence by the Jersey Financial Services Commission, and will provide investment services including investment advice, investment management, settlements, custody and dealing to international clients, including private individuals, trustees, charities and family offices.

The creation of the firm has led to seven new posts.

Aidan McAvinue - formerly head of Family Office Banking at Barclays - has been appointed head of office.

“We are all delighted to be part of the Smith & Williamson family, a multi-disciplinary financial advisory group which is majority-owned by partners and staff, meaning our long term interests are aligned with those of our clients. In our experience, clients want access to a talented and accountable investment manager, and they want the reassurance of a stable infrastructure and flexible and responsive investment process without being tied to one house view or research. Smith & Williamson puts an emphasis on bespoke advice supported by well-established and trusted procedures, all delivered by deeply experienced personnel.”

Two other founding directors, Simon O’Donoghue,- a former director of Jupiter Asset Management – and Christopher Golding - a former director at Barclays in Jersey, responsible for their offshore investment management offering – have been appointed head of business development, and head of investments, respectively.

Mr O’Donoghue adds: “Smith & Williamson has built a very strong reputation in the islands over the years and feedback on these developments has been great. We think we are really well positioned to deliver because we are accessible, make local decisions, and we understand the diverse challenges facing local and international clients and their service providers.”

Also joining Smith & Williamson International are Joel Graves, who has been recruited as associate director, and Zena Whiteley as administration manager. A further two employees are due to join the team in July and August.

Smith & Williamson has taken offices in the new development at Weighbridge House, St Helier where both teams will be located.