Global corporate, private client and fund services provider Hawksford has announced the appointments of two new directors in Jersey, with Magda Stratford and Gerry Gowans joining the group as part of its ongoing strategy to bolster its proposition for international private clients.
In her new role, Magda will manage a team administering complex multi-jurisdictional structures for a range of high and ultra-high net worth international families. With a particular focus on the UK, European and Middle East markets, she will also play a key role in strengthening stakeholder relationships to drive business growth, and in supporting the team’s business development strategy.
A fully qualified member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP), Magda has more than 15 years of experience in the Jersey fiduciary sector, including at Coutts & Co Trustees, BNP Paribas and most recently at Zedra, where she was a Client Director.
Meanwhile, Gerry will manage a team that administers structures for private clients with a focus on the Middle East, Asia and Africa, while he also has a responsibility for driving the development and securing of new business.
Gerry Gowans (left) and Magda Stratford (right)
With more than 25 years’ experience in the banking and trust sector, he has held a number of senior positions across the UK, Jersey and Guernsey, most recently at Zedra where he was a Client Director, working alongside Magda.
Gerry’s experience is wide ranging and includes establishing and administering trusts, companies and foundations, traditional banking assets, real estate, family businesses, joint ventures and philanthropic structures. A Chartered Banker through the Scottish Institute of Bankers, he also holds a Diploma in Trust and Estate Practices, and a CFA UK Investment Management Certificate.
Commenting on their appointments, Hawksford’s Global Head of Private Client Services Darren Kelland said:
“We are very excited to welcome Gerry and Magda, whose experience and leadership skills will be greatly beneficial in helping us grow our private client business and provide high-quality solutions for clients in key global markets.
Their knowledge of the international private client space and well-established working relationship make them a valuable addition to the team, with their arrival undoubtedly strengthening our cross-border capabilities and helping us to meet our global ambitions as a firm.”