Taking advantage of a growing demand for independent director services, Alison Nolan recently launched Athena International Management to cater to this growing market. “Independent directors have become so important to the hedge fund industry that investors are frequently paying a premium for hedge funds, which have reputable directors acting,” said Ms Nolan.

“The focus on our director services is to raise the benchmark for the Cayman Islands and in doing so strengthen the reputation of the financial service industry. “Our emphasis is on excellence of service and responsiveness. We give the investment manager the confidence that we are looking after the fund’s best interests, which also provides shareholders with total security and confidence.

“We have got a commercial yet personalised approach with equal emphasis on the business concerns and regulatory issues, which leave manager free to focus on investments,” she said. Athena International Management provides two independent directors who are licensed and approved by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.

Being licensed directors strengthens the fundamental service because it brings added assurance the directors are complying with the strong regulations and reporting requirements of this jurisdiction. In addition, the firm provides a range of corporate services as well as cost-effective voluntary liquidation services.

Another important service is the ability to liaise with all parties from the regulators to the service providers of the fund. Her firm can also recommend local service providers including accountants and auditors. Ms Nolan added the firm has invested heavily on Information Technology and has recently launched the firm’s website, which provides a wealth of information on its financial services.