Specialist Speaking

Disagreements are approached constructively, with a focus on open dialogue and listening to all perspectives. Keith relies on evidence-based discussions to find common ground and ensure decisions are in the best interest of the company. Fund Boards typically operate by consensus, and collaborative solutions are usually reached without formal votes.

Keith remains current by attending industry conferences, participating in professional networks, and engaging in continuous learning through courses and webinars. He also serves on committees, lectures on governance and industry trends, and stays informed through research and professional publications.

The first requirement is maintaining a deep understanding of the regulatory framework that governs risk and compliance for AIFMs. As an I-NED, Keith then seeks to challenge boards on their approaches, to identify weak areas and ensure that risk management has a profile equal to portfolio management.

Serving multiple clients is common for I-NEDs. Keith manages potential conflicts by disclosing all relevant positions to each board and recusing himself when necessary. He follows strict corporate governance standards and regularly reviews his roles to ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements.

Rather than privileging one role over another, we avoid conflicts by establishing a schedule for each board role. As a key aspect of corporate governance, Keith encourages each Board to plan their annual schedule up to 12 months in advance. This facilitates the availability and travel of both Luxembourg and non-Luxembourg members, to promote accountability, support strategic decision-making, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Strict confidentiality protocols are followed, including secure communication and data storage practices. Keith ensures clear boundaries between his roles, never sharing sensitive information across companies. He regularly undertakes training on data protection and compliance to safeguard confidentiality. When appropriate, Keith is added to insider lists and complies with their requirements.

The Luxembourg regulator requires directors to develop and track a time budget across all activities. When a new appointment is proposed, this is one key item discussed with the client. As Keith's role is to provide Luxembourg substance, most of his time is Luxembourg-based. His convenient location close to the airport makes travel simple when necessary, but these requirements are discussed separately.

Yes. Keith understands the time-sensitive nature of private equity and real estate transactions. His schedule allows flexibility for ad hoc meetings and urgent matters, ensuring he is available at short notice when needed.

Keith has over 30 years of experience in real estate, specialising in administering, structuring and managing Real Estate Investment Funds (REIFs). He offers insights into fund structuring, governance, valuation and compliance, ensuring funds align with regulatory requirements while delivering long-term value to investors.

Keith's experience spans the full lifecycle of Fund Administration, from setup to ongoing compliance. He ensures that fund service providers such as administrators, depositaries and AIFMs meet regulatory standards, with a focus on risk management, asset safekeeping, and reporting, to ensure the fund operates efficiently and within the law.

Accurate and consistent valuation is critical for AIFs. Keith provides oversight on valuation methodologies, ensuring they comply with AIFMD and industry standards. His background in real estate and fund management and his role as a Valuation Committee member for a 3rd-party AIFM enable him to review and challenge valuations, ensuring they reflect the portfolio’s true value.

Keith’s deep understanding of the AIFMD regulatory framework enables him to guide fund boards through compliance, from fund structuring to operational processes and reporting. His experience in setting up and managing AIFMs helps to ensure that regulatory obligations are met, including governance, risk management, and investor protection.

Keith ensures that fund boards comply with AML regulations by implementing rigorous processes to detect and prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. He works closely with AML officers to establish robust controls, ensuring ongoing compliance with Luxembourg and European regulations.