Independent and Owner-Managed: Why Mess with Success?

Why Stability in Ownership Matters More Than Ever in the Trust Industry.

Pictured (L) to (R): Hannah Roynon-Jones, Paul Rondel, Sarah McBrearty, Chris Cotillard, Steve Gully.

In today’s trust industry, change is constant and is not always comforting. Mergers, acquisitions, and exits have become familiar headlines, leaving clients and employees wondering what’s next.

At Alex Picot Trust, we’ve taken a different path. One that’s rooted in stability, independence, and long-term thinking.

We’re proud to be one of the oldest and largest private client trust businesses in Jersey. Since our inception, we’ve remained entirely owned by those working in the business. That means the people running the business are the same people who own it— that’s never changed and we have no intention of changing.

While other firms have sold, merged, or moved on, we’ve stayed true to our founding principles.

Ownership shapes culture, it influences priorities, and in the trust industry, it directly affects the quality of client service. When ownership changes hands, clients often face new teams, new policies, and new ways of working.  

Our clients benefit from continuity; the same trusted relationships, the same values, and the same commitment to delivering the best service to our clients.

In a competitive employment market, professionals want to work somewhere they can grow, contribute, and feel secure. Our director-led model fosters a collaborative environment where clients and employees interact directly with the owners and decision makers for the business.

Our independence gives us the freedom to make long term decisions that are right for our clients, free from any external influence or financial pressures.  Management time is spent on our people and clients, and this efficiency enables us to have streamlined controls and a competitive pricing model.

When choosing a trusted adviser or business partner, it’s essential to look beyond today and consider their long-term goals.   The confidence that comes from working with a trustee who offers stability, continuity, and integrity is invaluable.