Citywealth Leaders List interview: 60 seconds with Marina Zevedeou, The Aspen Trust Group

Date: 19 Mar 2025

Karen Jones

This week’s 60-second piece is dedicated to Marina Zevedeou, CEO of The Aspen Trust Group.

Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role.

I am the CEO of Aspen Trust Group and I am responsible for managing the overall Group’s operations, marketing strategy and direction as well as external communications and network. I ensure the Group is always profitable, implementing decisions and managing well the Group’s resources and capital. We always focus on growth, risk, regulatory management, technology, innovation, people and culture. I am a Fellow Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales with PWC, London. I am also the President of Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI) – Cyprus and the Cyprus Country Chair of G100 Global Trade Wing.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My day starts with a very early gym or Pilates session, which energizes me for the day ahead. Exercising not only boosts my physical well-being but also gives me valuable time to think, plan, and structure the day’s tasks. A large part of my day is spent advising clients on corporate operations, from financial structuring to compliance and international expansion. I also focus on bringing in new business by connecting with potential clients, particularly in high-growth sectors such as the hi-tech and film industries, which are currently thriving in Cyprus. As a hands-on leader, I engage directly with our team, holding meetings to address their questions and guide them on delivering services with added value to our clients. I also dedicate time to my commitments in women’s leadership and mentorship, which are core to my values.

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

A most recent and exciting request we received was from a film production company in the Middle East looking to bring their project to Cyprus. In recent years, Cyprus has become an increasingly popular destination for filmmaking due to its attractive cash rebates (up to 45%), tax credits, and VAT refunds for the industry. I find this not only interesting but also meaningful for the country. The more films are produced in Cyprus, the greater its global recognition, ultimately boosting the economy and benefiting both citizens and investors. Sustainability consulting structures are on the rise, an area very interesting and meaningful to us, as we fully support the ESG principles.

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

As CEO, I observe daily that our clients find it challenging to stay up to date with constantly changing regulations and compliance requirements. They feel that the international business environment is somehow not as friendly as it used to be. To address this, our compliance and client teams actively monitor updates, attend seminars, and provides proactive solutions to ensure clients remain compliant while easing their business concerns.

What is your proudest professional achievement?

My proudest professional achievement was acquiring full ownership of The Aspen Trust Group in 2019, allowing me to shape its vision and direction. In 2020, I led a strategic restructuring and rebranding to enhance our services and ensure compliance with evolving regulations. Since then, the Group has achieved steady profit growth each year, reinforcing our commitment to innovation, excellence, and long-term success not only for our clients but also ourselves.

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

I believe a great leader must have vision, integrity, resilience, adaptability, and the ability to inspire others. Strong decision-making, clear communication, and emotional intelligence are essential for guiding a team effectively. A leader should also be hands-on, lead by example, and foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous growth. Most importantly, true leadership is about empowering others and creating a lasting positive impact.

Who do you most admire and why?

I admire all the women in history who have shown strength, courage, and resilience. Their struggles and determination have paved the way for the better society we have today. This is why I actively support women, minorities, and those who choose to stand up and make their voices heard. I am committed to creating a more inclusive and empowering world for future generations.

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

The last place I traveled to was the UK for the Citywealth Powerwomen Awards. I usually combine award ceremonies with business trips, as I have clients in the UK and take the opportunity to meet with them. It is also a chance to enjoy some leisure time, including going to the theater, watching a musical or visiting a gallery.

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

If I weren’t in this industry, I would be dedicating more time to mentoring women as this is a passion very close to my heart. I find great fulfillment in guiding and empowering women to achieve their goals and break barriers in their careers and I have been recognized for this passion by Citywealth with the GOLD Mentor of the Year award in 2023 and again as Mentor of the Year in 2025,

How do you relax after a long day?

After a long day, I unwind by spending time with family and friends, enjoying a good book or documentary, swimming during the weekends, or taking a walk by the sea. I also appreciate moments of quiet reflection, which help me recharge and stay balanced.