Citywealth Leaders List, 60 seconds interview – Natalia Alvarez, Director at Harneys Fiduciary – London

Date: 21 Jul 2025

Karen Jones

This week’s 60-second Citywealth Leaders List interview is dedicated to Natalia Alvarez, Director at Harneys Fiduciary – London.

Tell Citywealth readers a bit about your role.

I’m a Director at Harneys Fiduciary in London, with over 15 years of experience in the offshore services industry. My work spans private wealth, corporate, and fiduciary solutions, and I collaborate closely with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and corporate clients, particularly across the EMEA region.
Since joining Harneys Fiduciary in 2010, I’ve specialised in structuring and administering trusts, estates, and complex wealth planning arrangements. I also oversee the setup and management of companies, funds, and managed entities, delivering tailored solutions across multiple jurisdictions. I’m a qualified Uruguayan lawyer and hold a Master’s in Business Tax Law.

What does a typical day look like for you?

One of the things I love most about my role is the variety, no two days are ever quite the same. A typical day might start with advising clients on how best to structure and manage their entities, often in coordination with their legal and tax advisors. I’m also closely involved in making sure everything runs smoothly operationally, which means keeping an eye on the details while never losing sight of the bigger picture. I spend a good part of my time planning strategically with the team, making sure we’re all aligned and moving in the right direction. I genuinely enjoy meeting new clients and building long-term relationships. That human connection, combined with staying informed about developments in our key jurisdictions, helps us stay one step ahead and identify new opportunities for them.

There’s also a lot of internal collaboration, which I really value. Whether it’s brainstorming with colleagues or supporting wider business goals, it all adds up to a role that keeps me challenged and connected.

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

Lately, I’ve been involved in several multi-jurisdictional restructurings where families are preparing to pass assets to the next generation. These cases often involve a broad mix of assets, from operating businesses to digital investments, which adds complexity and nuance. Aligning family governance with legal and tax frameworks requires careful planning, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration. It’s challenging work but incredibly rewarding to help families navigate these pivotal moments.

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

A key challenge many of our clients face is managing wealth across borders, whether due to the location of family members, businesses, or assets. This brings layers of legal, tax, and practical complexity. Our role is to help simplify that. We work closely with their advisors to ensure structures are compliant, fit-for-purpose, and future-proof. Above all, we take a proactive, personalised approach to support our clients throughout every stage of their wealth journey.

What is your proudest professional achievement?

One of my proudest achievements has been playing a key role in the development and launch of our new UK service. It was a true team effort, and I was fortunate to be involved both strategically and operationally from day one. It’s incredibly rewarding to bring something new to market that reflects our clients’ sophisticated needs, especially here in the UK, where demand continues to evolve.

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

Empathy, integrity, and clarity. A good leader listens actively, communicates openly, and supports people in reaching their potential. Adaptability is also crucial, balancing long-term vision with the ability to problem-solve in the moment. And of course, never losing sight of the team’s well-being along the way.

Who do you most admire and why?

My mum, without a doubt. She’s always been a huge source of inspiration- balancing her professional and personal life with such grace, strength, and determination. She taught me that you can pursue your ambitions without compromising your values. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day.

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

My last work trip was to Dubai, an incredibly dynamic market with growing demand for structuring solutions, especially among entrepreneurial families and crypto-related ventures. Most recently, I returned from a holiday in Greece and honestly, I should have stayed a little longer! It’s such a beautiful place to unwind and recharge.

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

I’ve always loved the idea of opening a small library café, a cozy space where people can enjoy a good book, great coffee, and thoughtful conversation. Something about that combination feels like the perfect escape.

How do you relax after a long day?

Usually with a good book or a walk through London- sometimes on my own, sometimes with friends or family. The city has such incredible energy, and even just taking it all in after a busy day can be surprisingly grounding.