Hawksford Goes Forth

Hawksford, one of the Channel Islands’ largest independent trust companies, reports that it is continuing its ongoing buy and build strategy and international expansion. Hawksford, which is backed by UK mid-market private equity firm Dunedin, has acquired L-S&S GmbH, based in Zurich, Switzerland, and its New Zealand trust company.

The acquisition follows the firm's recent move into the Middle East where it opened a Dubai office in May. Hawksford takes the opportunity to break a related piece of news, that it has appointed a new chairman, Philip Taylor, former senior partner of PwC Channel Islands, to assist with its expansion plans.

Hawksford was established in 2008 following a management buyout of Rathbone Trust Company Jersey Limited, backed by Dunedin. Since then it has been focused on growth, both organically and through global expansion.

L-S&S GmbH is described as a boutique private wealth law firm. It provides specialist advice on wealth planning and structuring, particularly using international and offshore trusts, private trust companies and other asset-holding structures.

Dunedin managing director, Shaun Middleton, who sits on Hawksford’s board, comments: “The deal exemplifies the approach that Dunedin typically takes to supporting the growth ambitions of its investee companies – both by pursuing an active buy and build acquisition strategy and by strengthening geographic footprint. We are increasingly involved in growing businesses on an international level.”

Dunedin-backed businesses which are currently undergoing rapid international expansion include: WFEL, the designer and manufacturer of mobile bridging systems; UPOL, a world leader in automotive refinish products; and Red Commerce, a global supplier of SAP experts.