I recently met a man well-versed in the island’s history, so naturally, we got onto the topic of the 80th anniversary of the Liberation. I mentioned that, for me, the best part of the commemoration is the bank holiday – this year falling on a Friday, making for a three-day weekend of socialising. He replied that many people feel this way
because the Occupation is now so distant that few actually remember it. Most of those who directly experienced it were children at the time, and only those aged 98 or older would have lived through it as late teens or young adults.
It’s difficult to be passionate about something you don’t truly resonate with. While research is a great way to build empathy, many find it laborious and dull. It’s much easier to absorb knowledge through a documentary or historical drama – something engaging, digestible, and not too time-consuming. However, unless you commit to squinting at a phone screen for hours, you can’t watch a story unfold while literally sitting in a scene where it’s set. With a book, you can. With Liberation Day in mind, I got in touch with Rachael Dymtri, author of The Women of Jersey Island.
Set in 1940, Rachael’s novel is a work of historical fiction based in Jersey during the Occupation. It follows three women and their interwoven secrets: Violet, an uptight mother with a lifelong secret; Louisa, her strong and bubbly best friend; and Marcy, Violet’s sensitive daughter. Marcy has been in love with Louisa’s son, Eugene, since childhood, so when he suddenly disappears, she is driven to join the resistance with Louisa – without telling her mother.
While Marcy and Violet are entirely fictional, Louisa is loosely inspired by the Jersey heroine Louisa Gould. A shopkeeper in St. Ouen and the mother of two sons who enlisted in the British Armed Forces, she defied the Nazis during the Occupation by sheltering a Russian soldier forced to build German fortifications around the island. When warned of the possible consequences, Louisa famously said, “I have to do something for another mother’s son.”
The Women of Jersey Island will appeal to readers who enjoy authors like Kristin Hannah and Jina Bacarr. It’s also an accessible read for those looking to familiarise themselves with this period in Jersey’s history. If you’re planning a Sunday reset over the upcoming bank holiday weekend, consider taking a copy of Rachael’s novel to one of the beautiful locations that inspired its scenes. Eyes right for her top five recommended spots – featured in the plot and perfect for reading.
Plemont Bay
“Plemont Bay, Jersey, is where the dramatic opening scene of The Women of Jersey Island takes place. The first time I visited in 2018, I was completely undone by the dramatic scenery and the stunning cliffs. When it is high tide, the beach is completely covered. At low tide, the steep slippery stairs, the wet sand that never fully dries, and the plentiful hidden coves just make it feel like the type of place Captain Flint could have landed. The view from the cliffs above is incredible too – just don’t get too close to the edge!!”
Greve de Lecq
“This is the beautiful, sheltered beach where Violet is supposed to have gone in the opening scene. It’s where many scenes in the book take place. Every time I return to this beach, I am overwhelmed by both its beauty and its comfort. There is a great cafe to enjoy a cup of tea and The Women of Jersey Island.”
Sorel Point
“When I first began writing the book, I imagined Louisa’s house being near here, built like a strong, weathered lady who has faced many elements but came out standing. Though I moved her house in later revisions, I enjoyed the footpath from Sorel Point to Devil’s Hole, and walked there more than once as I mapped out Louisa’s character.
The house itself, which becomes a kind of character in the novel, was inspired by the home of my cousin Jean, who lives on the island. I first stayed at Jean’s house when I was 14. I had this feeling, right from the start, that the house was special. It was of course old, full of history, but also love and happiness, with a long stream of windows in the conservatory. I wanted to draw inspiration from a house that had its own story, and Jean’s house is just that.”
Liberation Square
“It’s hard to miss Liberation Square, in the thick of so much activity in St. Helier. I spent one very rainy Liberation Day in that square with my Granny, watching a reenactment of the Union Jack being restored to the Pomme d’Or Hotel until, drenched to the bone, we took off in search of a coffee. It’s wonderful to stand there and think about how emotional it must have felt to have the Pomme d’Or taken back, to know the war was truly over.”
La Roque
“I have a lovely memory, from when I was five or six years old, of being at the beach in La Rocque with my grandad. I remember the way we searched for crabs in tidal pools and raced to the sea for buckets of water. Those memories: of mushy sand and finding shells, of the water’s edge feeling miles away at low tide, of being a child without a care in the world, were the emotions I wanted this book to evoke. Additionally, La Rocque was one of the locations that was bombed during the Nazi invasion.”
Shifting Sands is a group exhibition featuring 20 painters from the world famous Turps Banana painting school. It has been curated in conjunction with Jersey based painter Tim Le Breuilly, who is himself part of the 2025 Turps cohort. This exhibition offers Jersey audiences a unique opportunity to experience the best of a new generation of painters, contributing to current developments in contemporary painting practice. The correspondence course is by nature international and these painters are drawn from far and wide, each with a unique voice articulated through their chosen medium.
Painting is an ancient medium; fluid, dirty, slippery. Each iterative mark is a measure of the moment of its appearance and as such it is the perfect medium to express the messiness, volatility and fleetingness of our human experience. What these painters have in common is the desire to use the medium of paint to act as a conduit or witness for the human condition. To confer the minutiae of daily life onto canvas, to shed light on the invisible and to articulate the very personal by way of a shared experience.
Painter and co-curator Tim Le Breuilly shares his thoughts on the exhibition: “‘Shifting Sands’ could describe an active, chaotic, living landscape. The act of looking, itself creates an even more complex dialogue as we encounter geology and flora occupying space with the overwhelming, pervasive murmuration of light. Catching fleeting scenes of natural processes whilst heavy slabs of rock emerge from the sea and jut out to meet the sky. The rocks, cousins of the finer particles demonstrating the ebb and flow of the shoreline. ‘Shifting Sands’ could also refer to painting and its chimeric qualities; a practice that constantly evolves, straddling increasingly complex systems as a way to navigate human experience. The medium’s primal smears and daubs allow the painter extension into the world around them whilst also clumsily keeping accurate recording just out of reach.
Whether the subject matter is a collection of objects, landscape or other humans these artists give gravity to their materials and subjects with some creating a window into reverie.
Most of the painters in this show have become associates through the ‘Turps Banana’ alternative schooling program which has a particularly egalitarian ethos. We’d like to invite you to come and contemplate the various works in this, far from exhaustive, survey of an inherently ponderous medium.”
Shifting Sands
CCA Galleries International
10 Hill Street
Exhibition continues until 2nd May
Monday – Friday 12-6pm
ccainternational.com
Participating Artists: CD Lewis, Ashley Holmes, Pavel Isupov, Nikki Foster, Polly Tomlinson, Sebastián Espejo, Nick Ivins, Carlo Formisano, Cynthia Harrison Orr, Elaine Quinlan, Sylvia Hill, George Badescu, Julie Annis, Fiona Richmond, Jarrod Becker, Tim Dodds, Emma Loizides, Amanda Horwood, Tim Le Breuilly and Belma Kratovic.
New exhibition to open as part of Jersey’s official Liberation 80 anniversary programme.
May and June will see ArtHouse Jersey host an exhibition at their Capital House gallery inspired by the memories and experiences of the Jersey deportees who were sent to a prison camp in a small town called Wurzach (now Bad Wurzach) in southern Germany during World War II.
Working closely with the St Helier Bad Wurzach Partnerschaft, the exhibition more widely explores the legacy of this extraordinary story encountered by Jersey residents and connects it to enduring experiences of displacement, occupation and reconciliation, both from Jersey and internationally. Structures & Memory (a place called Wurzach) features the work of four Jersey artists – composer Emily de Gruchy, documentary photographer Shan O’Donnell, sculptural and performance artists Oliver Le Gresley and Nicole Sheppard – alongside archival materials collected by the families of deportees to Bad Wurzach during the war. The exhibition will be accompanied by a programme of events including artists talks and a concert of a newly commissioned musical score by Emily de Gruchy presented at the St Helier Methodist Centre.
Shan O’Donnell will be presenting a series of portraits of ex-internees alongside archival images of the parents and children who were deported, displaced and interned. Emily de Gruchy is composing a multi-channel soundscape of archive recordings of music that was played and created in the prison during the internment alongside present-day field recordings of natural sounds. Oliver Le Gresley (he/him) will be presenting a sculptural installation drawn from the notebooks and diaries of the deportees held at Jersey Archive to create a dwelling structure that conveys the feeling of the old castle building (Schloss) and its particular architecture in which the prison camp was created. Nicole Sheppard (she/her) is creating a sculptural project that focuses on the theme of ‘reconciliation’ where through the dark experiences of the Occupation there has blossomed a dialogue of exchange.
The exhibition will also include a major new artwork of paper ‘Doves of Peace’ created by Jersey school children as part of ArtHouse Jersey’s Gem of the Sea project, focusing on this 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation. Structures & Memory: a place called Wurzach is presented in association with the St Helier Bad Wurzach Partnerschaft.
Structures & Memory (a place called Wurzach)
Friday 2 May to Sunday 8 June 2025
12pm to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays
ArtHouse Jersey at Capital House
Free entry
Visit arthousejersey.je for more information about Structures & Memory and a whole host of upcoming art exhibitions, events and opportunities.
St Ouens is God’s parish. No one can convince me otherwise. Everything about it is just better. You know that feeling when you get home after a long day, kick off your shoes and flop onto the sofa? That feeling is amplified in St Ouens – and not just because it took you twice as long to get back there.
When you’re thinking about putting down roots somewhere, you’ve got to think wisely about the location. Factors commonly considered are time taken to commute to work, whether you can walk to save on parking, and how much you care about waking up to a beautiful view. If the first two aren’t calling out to you, you might as well relocate to St Ouens.
Yes, the bus routes are awful, you’ll have to factor in more time for the school run, and in the winter your 5k will probably always be done in the dark. But that is a small price to pay in return for the island’s best beach sunsets and surfing at your fingertips all year round. For sea swimmers favouring a sheltered cove, with water that gets deep quick, there’s Plemont (half the time). You can explore hidden caves and bays paddle boarding or kayaking from Greve de Lecq, enjoying some great coasteering jumps or bouldering along the way. If you prefer trees over the beach, Val de la Mare is teeming with a variety of different species, only a 10 minute walk from St Ouens Church through winding green lanes. The parish is also home to The Farmers, widely known by parishioners as the best pub on the island, regularly hosting live music nights, sausage and cider festivals, and in November, a bonfire night. It is an establishment where real ale runs like rivers, and the Guinness is always flowing through the pipes.
If this sounds like your version of heaven, you simply must relocate to the parish that God smiles upon. This house on La Route de la Villaise could be your next home, situated on a quiet elevated lane in St Ouen, overlooking the picturesque scenes of L’Étacq. There’s an uninterrupted view of St Ouens Bay, accompanied by a large garden to admire it from. Imagine a warm summer evening, crisp glass of rosé (or cold bottle of beer) in hand, and 10pm sea view sunsets amidst the aroma of country air. Life truly does not get better than this.
The house itself is beautifully presented, offering over 2,800 square feet of comfort. With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, this detached home is designed for a family that appreciates the wonders of nature. The principal bedroom is practically a sanctuary, with clever storage, walk in wardrobe and an en-suite. The room is complete with a private balcony, to enjoy a morning coffee overlooking an ocean gleaming with golden light.
On the ground floor there is a spacious kitchen that serves as the hub of the home, seamlessly flowing into both the large dining room and the cosy sitting room. The former has direct access out into the rear garden, equipped with decks fit for a jacuzzi, surrounded by views of equine land. A study, two double bedrooms and a bathroom complete the ground floor.
In addition to the principal bedroom, the upper floor features a further double bedroom with gorgeous views, connected to a dressing area that could easily serve as an additional bedroom. A spacious landing and another bathroom complete the first floor.
The front of the house features a small attractive pond, alongside a large paved parking area that adds to the convenience of the home. If you prefer a sheltered settlement for a coveted automobile, there is a garage with internal access to suit your every requirement.
With no onward chain, this immaculate property is ready for you to move in and start living the St Ouen dream. If waking up to sea views and the sweet smell of the countryside sounds like your kind of lifestyle, this could be the perfect home for you.
Martingale House, St. Ouen, £2,250,000 Freehold
4 BEDROOMS
3 BATHROOMS
2519 SQUARE FEET
Questions: Viewing? Call Chris at Indigo Estates on 01534 639955
When setting out on our quest to find clocks on the island, we didn’t anticipate how challenging it would be. A brief discussion with the manager at Romerils revealed that whilst interior shops hold a variety of cushions, lamps and vases, clocks are sparsely spotted in-person, having mostly migrated into the digital abyss. But fear not! We embarked on a mission to track down the last few gems still populating Jersey’s clock-ecosystem, so that if you’re tired of scrolling through TikTok, you can check out this array of Tick-Tocks instead.
Perfect for those who can only afford either a chopping board or a clock.
Som Mango Clock: De Gruchys, £85.49
Rumoured to have been an extra in Harry Potter; potentially a time travel machine.
Seiko Melodies in Motion: B.C.Lelai Jeweller and Engraver, £250
Tom Terry: Payment Data Administrator, Saltgate Jersey
What made you choose to work for Saltgate?
Having worked as a Chef for five years, I decided to explore a new challenge by moving into Finance at the age of 23. Growing up in Jersey, I was fortunate to have access to the opportunities that this finance-centred island provides. I discovered Saltgate through a recruitment agency, and their values and focus on work-life balance caught my attention. I really appreciate the open office layout of our Jersey office, where the directors are right here with us at our desks instead of being isolated in an office. This setup makes it much easier to interact with them and learn from their experiences. Long nights and working weekends were the norm when I was in the catering industry, so it is a breath of fresh air to work with a company that strives to ensure its employees have a good work-life balance. The ‘Flexigate’ programe is a personal favourite of mine which allows us to be flexible with two hours of our week, giving us a helpful window to manage our personal lives during work hours, whether it’s catching a 4 PM flight on a Friday for a weekend trip or taking an extra hour at lunch to catch up on personal jobs.
What professional training have you done?
Whilst not related to Finance I have completed my City & Guilds Diploma in Culinary Skills Level 2 at Highlands College.
What do you do on an average day?
Being on the Payments team, my main job is to process payments for the various client teams in the office. Saltgate has made significant investments in how the business processes payments, introducing our own proprietary payment front-end system known as STAR. This has provided us with a central hub that includes the various banking platforms we administer. Currently, I am helping to test and set up the next banking platform which will be added onto STAR, to increase the catchment for the business and bring us one step closer to processing all our payments through our new platform. On a monthly basis, I gather statistics for the number of payments processed through STAR and help the business identify blockers we may be facing and how we can improve the new platform.
What is your next step?
Having enjoyed my time with Saltgate and in the finance industry, I am looking to begin my ACCA exams and start the journey to become a chartered accountant.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
I don’t think I would want to change my experience; I’d encourage myself to pursue what I loved which was cooking and still is. Whilst the catering industry didn’t work out for me, I have still gained valuable skills during my time as a Chef which surprisingly have transferred over very well to my new role at Saltgate. I would say to be confident in your abilities and don’t underestimate yourself. When I first thought about changing my career from catering to finance, I was worried that I wouldn’t have the skills or knowledge to be able to succeed, but after three promotions I can say that with hard work and determination anything is possible.
A little more about Tom
Age: 25
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
Cliché but like lots of 8-year old boys, it was to be a footballer.
Favourite way to relax?
Meeting up with my friends, I feel really lucky to have stayed so close with them even though we’ve all pursued different career paths. I’ve also made some great friends at Saltgate, and there are lots of opportunities to join in with sports at Saltgate.
Favourite place to eat in Jersey?
Anley Steet. From my experience as a chef, I love the everchanging menu at Anley Street, their pie of the month is fantastic for groups and their new smash burgers they have introduced are great.
Favourite possession?
I love having my own flat to come home to after a day’s work. Being able to live independently has really allowed me to focus on my career progression and think about the next steps I would like to take in my personal life.
Eva Wallace: Administrator in Ogier Global’s Real Estate Team
What made you choose to work for Ogier?
I chose Ogier as I believed it provided the best opportunity for growth and experience, as well as its global reputation. Ogier offers hard-to-beat flexible working policies, plus a supportive and welcoming environment which stood out to me the most when I was applying and made for an easy decision.
What professional training have you done?
At university, I completed an Equine Business Management course because I originally saw my future in that industry. Now that I have made the switch to working as an administrator for Ogier Global, for several reasons, the firm is supporting me with my CGI International Finance and Administration Level 4 qualification, and I have already completed the CORE module. Ogier also promotes continuous learning, so I have completed various internal continuing professional development (CPD) courses.
What do you do on an average day?
My day-to-day tasks always vary, which is why I enjoy the role. No day is typically the same, however my responsibility is responding to client queries, which can involve simple document requests, organising board meetings or sending asset deals for approval. Overall, we work collaboratively within the team to take care of company secretary responsibilities and regulatory obligations. There are also a range of internal procedures to follow which are implemented in my daily schedule.
What is your next step?
My focus for this year is to continue sitting the exams for the CGI International Finance and Administration Level 4 qualification. In the future, I will also be focusing on training more specific to Real Estate to expand on my knowledge in that particular field.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Reflecting on what I know now, I would tell myself to take the opportunity that you think will be most valuable, even if it may also be the most challenging. Whatever route you take, it is also important that it’s suited to you, so that you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
A little more about Eva
Age: 22
University attended: Hartpury University
Course: BA (Hons) Equine Business Management
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? Zookeeper
Favourite way to relax: A walk on the beach
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Gradees Restaurant
Favourite possession: My photo album for memories
Ibrahim Khaled Elkanuni: Recovery & Reorganisation Associate, Grant Thornton
What made you choose to work for Grant Thornton?
I had heard of the company because two friends of mine work at Grant Thornton in Cambridge. I decided to apply to Grant Thornton in the Channel Islands after attending a presentation on Recovery & Reorganisation at university, which was delivered by some employees from the CI firm. Recovery & Reorganisation is a department that isn’t a usual destination for graduates and I was curious about the work.
What professional training have you done?
I am studying towards the ICAEW ACA qualification.
What do you do on an average day?
While the norm is to work on many cases at a time, my day is slightly different. My work recently tends to focus in detail on 3-4 cases at a time where I am either reviewing 600 documents to filter through information for my manager, or analysing 6,000 transactions for the purpose of a forensic report.
What is your next step?
Before completing the ICAEW ACA qualification I would love to have a year’s secondment with the Audit department to help build on my technical skills.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Establish a rapport with individual recruiters in the company/team. A lot of students would’ve nailed down the technical skills and assessments but in my opinion the biggest differentiator is your ability to connect with people. Once that is achieved, recruiters can see that you would be a great fit for their team.
A little more about Ibrahim
Age: 27
University: Bayes Business School
Course: Investment & Financial Risk Management
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
A farmer – I used to pick olives when I was a child.
Favourite way to relax?
During the week I enjoy morning walks by the beach, or afternoon runs during my lunch break. On the weekend I like to grind and brew fresh coffee, and play around with different coffee profiles.
Favourite place to eat in Jersey?
The Good Egg, or The Rice Bowl.
Richard Foster: Tax Senior, Grant Thornton
What made you choose to work for Grant Thornton?
I moved to Jersey in 2019 and contacted various recruitment agencies to aid my job search. Whilst discussing options with one of the recruiters, Grant Thornton came up in conversation and after researching the company and discussing it with friends who already worked in the Jersey and UK finance industry, I could see this was a company that values people and encourages individuals to develop and grow. The opportunity of undertaking the ACCA qualification supported by the company was ideal for me, especially as I did not have a background in finance.
What professional training have you done?
I am currently undertaking the ACCA qualification and should become part-qualified this year.
What do you do on an average day?
As a Tax Senior, an average day usually consists of preparing Jersey personal and corporate tax returns and being the day-to-day point of contact for my clients. I also assist the team in reviewing our associates’ work, and offering training and support when needed.
What is your next step?
I want to continue developing my knowledge, skills and experience within Jersey tax compliance, and to become ACCA qualified.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Take more risks and apply for roles that you want but may not feel you are qualified for. I always felt that I would not be considered for roles which were not related to my degree, however it is important to realise that personality – and demonstrating a willingness to learn – is vitally important to employers, especially at a trainee level. It is also never too late to consider a career change!
A little more about Richard
Age: 37
University: Sheffield Hallam University
Course: Sport & Leisure Management
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?
I was obsessed with football when I was a child, so being a footballer would have been the dream job.
Favourite way to relax?
Spending time with my wife and daughter. I also enjoying going out to restaurants and watching football.
Favourite place to eat in Jersey?
Sumas will always mean a lot to me as it is where we had our wedding reception. I also like Bass & Lobster, and Longueville Manor.
Shelley Kendrick is the Director and founder of Kendrick Rose, an executive bespoke recruitment company based in Jersey. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, a member of the British Psychological Society and a qualified practitioner in psychometric testing. She has been a member of the Institute of Directors (Jersey) committee and Chair of the IOD Future Leaders scheme.
Beginnings and Aspirations
I’m a kid from Manchester who’s done OK, I think! Or at least, that’s what people tell me! As a teenager I was incredibly shy, but confidence has a way of creeping up on you, and for me, it came when I started working at Next. I absolutely loved it—I could sell, I was smashing targets, and thriving in a team environment. My career took off quickly, from launching the Next Directory stores to troubleshooting underperforming locations, I ended up managing the highest-performing store in the company. That led to an incredible opportunity—setting up Next in the USA. But that’s another story!
Turning Point
After my time at Next USA, burnout hit me hard. I took a year off and travelled. I returned to Jersey, and then joined Mourant. Working in a corporate world after a retail career felt like a complete culture shock! I didn’t think I’d last my probation period! I also struggled with major imposter syndrome. I was in a world of finance and law, industries I’d never worked in, and I was totally out of my comfort zone. I’m sure a lot of it was in my head, but that feeling lingered for years. I meet so many women who experience the same thing but it’s just part of developing in confidence.
Challenges and Lessons
Despite my doubts, I found my feet at Mourant. I had a brilliant opportunity to build another career, working with incredible people and recruiting top-tier talent. Looking back, I realise how much that experience shaped me—it gave me the confidence and skills to go out on my own. Then came another crossroads and I took redundancy. I had a job lined up with a big global firm, but someone casually said, “I thought you would have set something up, Shelley.” And that was my ding moment. I realised I could take a chance on myself. I had enough savings to support myself for a year, I knew my industry inside out, and I believed I could make it work.
Skills and Mindset
Starting my own business was exhilarating. But life had other plans. I launched right as the recession hit. Hard. The job market collapsed, and then my bank shut my accounts. I was terrified I was going to lose my house and business. I had nowhere else to go—so I went to church, lit a candle for my mum, and had a good cry. When you’re at rock bottom, the only way is up. That was when I truly learnt that I could be strong, resilience kicked in, and I fought back. A few good friends lent me money, brushed me down and kicked me back out there, giving me support and belief in myself that I had a good business. That was all I needed. The pressure was immense, but the experience taught me resilience like nothing else. I wouldn’t want to go through it again, but I wouldn’t change it either. It shaped me, made me stronger, and helped Kendrick Rose become what it is today.
Networking and Mentors
Relationships are invaluable. Strong professional networks open doors, foster innovation, and provide support during challenging times. Joining the IoD to head up the Future Leaders sub-committee was one of the best things I ever did, it allowed me to do some great work in the community, support young people on-island and importantly, gave me access to a network of people I might never have met! It’s so important to put yourself out there, it’s not easy and totally out of a lot of people’s comfort zone, but it’s crucial to developing your network and Jersey has LOTS of opportunities to network and often, events are free to attend.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
For those just starting their journey, the path to success may seem daunting. However, the best advice is to take initiative, and never stop learning. Seek out mentors, get involved with committees, help supporting a charity, embrace challenges as learning opportunities, and cultivate resilience. Building a lasting career is about consistently growing, adapting, and staying passionate about your craft. Success is not just about reaching the end goal, it’s about the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the impact made along the way.
What’s ahead?
It was 2009 when I did my very first article in Gallery magazine, Sixteen years later, we’re still here. We’ve built a reputation for recruitment excellence, and I’m beyond proud that KR has been a finalist for Best Client Service in the Global Recruiter Awards and Best Small Recruitment Company. I thought this year would be the one where I slowed down, but there’s one more big opportunity for growth. We’ve got exciting new team additions, a potential new office off-island, and the fire is still burning, the future is looking bright, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Over the past year, Jersey’s funds market has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, solidifying its position as a leading global hub for alternative investment funds. The latest data reveals significant advancements across various sectors, underpinned by a sophisticated infrastructure and a proactive approach to evolving market dynamics.
The Market
The value of Assets Under Administration (AUA) in Jersey’s funds industry reached an all-time high of £497.7 billion as of June 2024, marking a 6.1% year-on-year increase. This growth is particularly noteworthy given the prevailing high-interest rate environment, underscoring Jersey’s robust financial ecosystem. The number of fund vehicles also saw an uptick, with a total of 2,450 funds and sub-funds serviced in Jersey, representing a 2.5% annual rise.
Private equity and venture capital funds continue to dominate Jersey’s funds landscape, accounting for £366.6 billion of the total AUA. This sector experienced a 9% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting sustained investor confidence and interest. Real estate funds hold the second position with £53 billion in assets, followed by exchange-traded commodities at £18.3 billion.
The industry also witnessed the launch of 145 new sub-funds between June 2023 and June 2024, collectively valued at £20.1 billion. Notably, over 90 of these were private equity or venture capital products, emphasising the continued appeal of these asset classes.
Emerging Trends for 2025
Diversification of Global Partnerships
Jersey’s funds industry is increasingly characterized by its global reach. The number of funds serviced for U.S. fund managers and promoters has grown by 56% over the past five years. European connections have also strengthened, with a 106% increase in funds associated with Sweden and a 44% rise with Switzerland. The UK remains a core market, exhibiting a steady 40% growth in fund numbers over the same period.
Rise of Private Debt Funds
Private debt continues to gain traction within Jersey’s funds sector. The number of private debt fund vehicles established has more than tripled over the past five years, reflecting a broader industry trend towards alternative lending and credit strategies.
Innovation in Private Markets
The International Stock Exchange (TISE), based in the Channel Islands, is capitalising on the global decline in initial public offerings by launching a platform for trading shares in privately held companies. This initiative caters to companies that prefer to remain private, allowing them to control share transactions and prices. Early adopters, such as the garden centre group Blue Diamond, have already utilised this facility. TISE plans to onboard more companies and explore tokenisation for closed-end funds, positioning itself uniquely amidst competition from larger exchanges.
Technological Integration and Digital Assets
Jersey is proactively enhancing its capabilities in the digital assets space. Efforts are underway to strengthen the island’s proposition in tokenization, reflecting a commitment to embracing technological advancements and meeting the evolving needs of investors.
Sustained Growth in Fund Administration Services
Service providers in Jersey continue to play a pivotal role in the industry’s success. The Aztec Group, for instance, has maintained its position as the largest fund administrator for the ninth consecutive year, overseeing US$253.2 billion in assets. This consistency underscores the high level of expertise and reliability offered by Jersey-based administrators.
Jersey’s funds market is poised for continued growth and diversification throughout 2025. The island’s ability to adapt to global market trends, foster international partnerships, and invest in technological innovation positions it as a formidable player in the global funds industry. As alternative asset classes like private equity, venture capital, and private debt gain prominence, Jersey’s sophisticated and evolving financial ecosystem is well-equipped to meet the demands of investors and fund managers alike.
INDUSTRY A-Z: Funds Lingo
A – Assets Under Administration (AUA) – The total value of assets managed by a fund administrator but not necessarily owned by them.
B – Beneficial Owner – The person or entity that ultimately owns or controls an asset, even if it is held in another name.
C – Collective Investment Fund (CIF) – A structure pooling capital from multiple investors for investment in various asset classes.
D – Due Diligence – A compliance process involving verification of investors, fund managers, and transactions to prevent financial crime.
E – Economic Substance – Regulatory requirements ensuring that certain financial entities in Jersey have substantial activity and presence on the island.
F – Fund Administrator – A company responsible for the operational and financial management of investment funds.
G – General Partner (GP) – The entity managing a limited partnership fund and responsible for decision-making and liabilities.
H – HIGH-NET-WORTH INDIVIDUAL (HNWI) – A wealthy investor meeting specific financial thresholds, often targeted by private equity and hedge funds.
I – International Stock Exchange (TISE) – A Jersey-based exchange providing listing services for investment vehicles and bonds.
J – Jersey Private Fund (JPF)
A streamlined, lightly regulated fund structure available to a maximum of 50 investors.
K – Know Your Customer (KYC) – A regulatory process ensuring financial institutions verify the identity and risk profile of clients.
L – Limited Partnership (LP) – A common fund structure where one or more general partners manage investments while limited partners contribute capital.
M – Management Shares – Shares giving holders decision-making power within a fund, typically held by the fund’s management team.
N – Net Asset Value (NAV) – The value of a fund’s assets minus liabilities, used to determine investor returns.
O – Offshore Fund – A fund domiciled outside the investor’s home country, often for tax efficiency and regulatory flexibility.
P – Private Equity (pe) – A category of investment funds that acquire equity stakes in private companies with the aim of enhancing value.
Q – Qualified Investor – An investor who meets specific wealth or experience criteria, allowing them to access sophisticated investment products.
R – Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) – A fund that invests in property and provides investors with real estate exposure.
S – Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) – A separate legal entity created for specific investment or financing purposes, often used in fund structuring.
T – Tokenization – The process of converting investment assets into digital tokens for fractional ownership and blockchain-based trading.
U – Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) – A regulated investment fund structure allowing cross-border distribution in the EU.
V – Venture Capital (VC) – A type of fund that provides early-stage investment to startups and high-growth potential companies.
W – Withholding Tax – A tax deducted at source on income earned by foreign investors, often mitigated by Jersey’s tax treaties.
X – Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) – A type of investment fund traded on stock exchanges, providing liquidity and diversification.
Y – Yield – The income return on an investment, typically expressed as a percentage.
Z – Zero-Tax Regime – Jersey’s corporate tax policy, which exempts most funds from taxation to attract international investment.
At Ogier, we owe our success and future as a firm to each person who works with us. All of us have different needs and working styles. So, we focus on providing true flexibility in where and when you work to suit you, your team and your clients. People at every level of the firm and in every team benefit from our flexible ways of working.
Find out more about how two members of Ogier Global’s Fund Administration team have embraced this approach to work.
Craig Healey
Manager in Ogier Global’s Fund Administration team
I’ve been at Ogier for nearly two years and truly appreciate the work-life balance and flexibility that the firm offers. I like to strike a balance between dedicating myself to work while keeping time for my hobbies, whether that’s playing the guitar or my records at home, as I’m heavily into music, or putting myself through the mill watching the great Blackburn Rovers play football.
I prioritise fostering a positive team environment and strive to maintain strong rapport and camaraderie within our team. Our Fund Administration team works hard to meet client deadlines, but we also make sure to celebrate our success together.
Ogier’s flexible work policies empower people to thrive professionally while maintaining personal wellbeing. The firm embraces the idea that their people can be productive no matter when or where they perform their work. Rather than enforcing a rigid workplace environment or schedule, workplace flexibility at Ogier acknowledges individual needs and supports better work-life balance and employee wellbeing. Maintaining this balance is not only important for health and relationships, but for productivity and performance.
At Ogier, everyone can excel at work and prioritise their wellbeing and time with family.
Leira Anne Lopez
Senior Fund Accountant in Ogier Global’s Fund Administration team
When I came across the opportunity to work as a Senior Fund Accountant at Ogier’s Jersey office, I was an expat from the Philippines working in Malta. Once I joined the team, Ogier helped with my relocation to Jersey – they played a vital role during this process and made sure I had the right support at every step. The firm’s flexible working policies have helped me to maintain my work-life balance and find my footing both inside and outside the office as I settled in my new home on the island. Since my first introduction to their people first ethos, I have been continuously amazed at how Ogier takes care of its people, in all aspects of work and life.
As an expat, it can be difficult to live many miles from loved ones. I value the time that I’m able to spend with those back home, and Ogier have helped me build this into my year, and into my weekly schedule, so I remain connected to my family. I truly value feeling supported, and this motivates me to give my best at work.
Ogier is also dedicated to providing development opportunities, from studying to experiencing different areas of the business. On several occasions, I have been able to work not only in fund accounting but also in systems and administration functions. I really appreciate this opportunity as it provides valuable insights into how the entire Fund Administration team operates.
From my relocation to flexible working, Ogier has showcased what true support and work-life balance feels like.
Interested? Contact Lauren Cahill, Resourcing and Onboarding Manager, at lauren.cahill@ogier.com or 01534514442. Learn more about our current vacancies in the Fund Administration team and across the business at ogier.com/careers.
