Independent Directorships

We offer an independent service as INEDs for international offshore funds and asset management companies. We have experience of serving on the boards of companies domiciled in the UK, Dubai (DIFC), Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and the Channel Islands�

Offshore funds which are established as corporate entities are controlled by a board of directors. A fund board frequently includes:

• Representatives of the fund promoter or investment manager
• Representatives of the service providers
• The fund’s external legal counsel
• An independent director

However, in practice, the promotor/investment manager “have called the shots“ and other board representatives have simply paid lip service. This process must change and is changing. The role of the Independent Non-Executive Director (‘INED’) has traditionally involved attending board meetings. This is changing. Investors now expect funds boards to feature experienced INEDs, who should provide a strategic overview together with experienced, intelligent advice. Regulatory requirements facing funds in many jurisdictions require a much more active hands-on approach from INEDs.  The onus on the INED is increasing, and INEDs are now expected to monitor specific areas of fund activity.