Hawksford Expands Global Presence with Acquisition of Paradigm Governance Partners

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Hawksford, a prominent global provider of corporate, private client, and fund services, has announced its strategic acquisition of Paradigm Governance Partners, a specialist governance and fund services company based in the Cayman Islands and the US. The agreement, subject to regulatory approval from the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), aligns with Hawksford’s expansion strategy supported by STAR Capital and follows recent acquisitions of key players in the industry.

This move reinforces Hawksford’s commitment to growth in major financial centres across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. The acquisition will establish Hawksford’s presence in the Cayman Islands, a leading domicile for investment funds, and enhance its visibility in the US market.

Paradigm Governance Partners, a privately owned CIMA-licensed fiduciary services company, specializes in governance solutions for global alternative fund managers. Their services span multiple jurisdictions and asset classes, catering to hedge funds, family offices, closed-end funds, and private equity. Paradigm provides independent directorship, distressed funds, value recovery, outsourced accounting, anti-money laundering, economic substance support, and ancillary services.

Hawksford’s global fund manager client base will benefit from the addition of Paradigm’s specialist governance services, complementing Hawksford’s existing expertise in key regions such as Asia, EMEA, and the UK. The acquisition will also introduce Paradigm’s clients to Hawksford’s comprehensive full-service offerings.

Geoff Ruddick, partner of Paradigm, expressed enthusiasm about the strategic opportunity, stating, “This is a strategic opportunity for Paradigm that will bring the specialist governance expertise we have developed over many years to a wider fund manager community through Hawksford’s global and growing network.”

Michel van Leeuwen, Group Chief Executive of Hawksford, emphasized the cultural fit between Hawksford and Paradigm, highlighting the acquisition as a significant step in strengthening their global reach and service proposition. The leaders of Paradigm will play key roles in Hawksford’s operations in the Cayman Islands and the US, ensuring a smooth transition period.

The acquisition of Paradigm Governance Partners aligns with Hawksford’s vision of expansion, providing a strategic foothold in key financial jurisdictions and enhancing its capabilities to meet the evolving needs of its global clientele.