Leaders List interview: 60 seconds with James Long, Director, Trust Services at Rawlinson & Hunter Limited

Date: 12 Jun 2024

Citywealth

This week’s 60-second piece is dedicated to James Long, Director at Director, Trust Services at Rawlinson & Hunter Limited, Cayman Islands

Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role.

I am a Director at Rawlinson & Hunter Limited, Cayman Islands where I run a dynamic book of trust and corporate clients.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Without wanting to sound cliched, I don’t really have a typical day. My role requires a lot of flexibility and adapting to situations that weren’t necessarily expected. It’s fantastic! I might start my day by joining a board meeting of an operational family business, then jump on to a call with a beneficiary dealing with a complex family matter, organising the purchase of a yacht, then join an internal strategy meeting… I feel very fortunate to have such a varied and fulfilling role.

Tell us about some recent, interesting client instructions you have received.

We specialise in the complex. Our structures will generally tend to house exotic (ie non-portfolio) assets. This means that we are often involved in the acquisition and maintenance of interesting and unusual assets. Recently, we have acquired a dry bulk carrier, thoroughbreds, art… We’re also involved with a structure that develops revolutionary healthcare technologies. I can’t say too much, though there are lots of exciting things happening in this space.

What challenges do your clients face and how are you helping your clients to overcome them?

Our clients grapple with the same challenges that we face on a daily basis, though they are exponentially amplified by their wealth. Communication and availability really are key to helping settlors and beneficiaries overcome their personal challenges. Beyond being concerned and impacted by geopolitical tensions, political uncertainty and the climate, we are currently witnessing the greatest transfer of generational wealth. The Next Generation are starting to take the reins on their family businesses and/or wealth. They are looking for their own trusted advisors to help them navigate this complicated transition. As a fiduciary business, it is imperative to ensure that the next generation of talent is being nurtured and developed so that they can be brought into the mix and provide a safe space for NextGen clients.

What is your proudest professional achievement?

I will always remember the day that I was asked to move to Cayman to run the business. The faith and trust shown by the Summit leadership will stay with me forever.

More recently, it was a privilege to be asked to help set up and chair the STEP Cayman NextGen initiative. The initiative, supported by STEP Cayman, strives to help nurture and develop the next generation of trust professionals in the Cayman Islands. I am very fortunate to work with a fantastic team of professionals, driven by the same vision and purpose. I owe a lot to the jurisdiction, and it is incredibly satisfying to contribute in a meaningful way.

What do you consider to be the most important attributes for a leader?

I was incredibly lucky to have found a leadership group that was truly invested in my professional growth and development. I have always been amazed by their ability to juggle so many plates and yet be able to give their undivided attention to their staff and clients. These are qualities that I strive to emulate in my place of business.

Where was the last place you travelled to for work or pleasure?

New York, for work. I love the vibrance and energy of the city.

If you weren’t in this industry, what else might you be doing?

I would have loved to be a Chef.

How do you relax after a long day?

My household is currently quite busy with three kids under the age of 5 (including a newborn!). I’ve come to find particular solace in reciting Elly Ballerina during the bedtime routine.  Over the weekend, there’s nothing better than spending the afternoon at the pool with the kids (and a glass of something).