Validus Risk Management appoints former NatWest Markets director to lead client engagement in the UK

October 3, 2022 - Validus Risk Management an independent financial risk advisory and technology firm, announced that it has appointed Alain Smith as Head of UK Client Engagement.

Mr. Smith brings almost 20 years’ experience across various areas of risk management and FX derivatives. Most recently, he was Global Head of Private Funds FX Sales for NatWest Markets, where he established and grew the firm’s dedicated currencies sales offering across private equity, credit, secondaries, real estate, and infrastructure funds.

Commenting on his appointment, Alain Smith said: “I’m thrilled to join Validus, a firm which I’ve long admired as the leader in risk management and advisory services to private capital funds, at such an exciting time. I look forward to leveraging my experience and networks to help the company continue its impressive growth trajectory and ensure our clients can act quickly and efficiently in response to market changes.”

Haakon Blakstad, CCO of Validus Risk Management, commented: “Alain is an excellent addition to the team and his extensive expertise will help advance and implement our strategy in the UK, as well as scale the business and drive performance. We know our existing and future clients in the UK and beyond will be excited to work with him as building and maintaining strong client relationships remains a top priority for Validus.

“The timing of Alain’s arrival couldn’t be better as we are seeing increased demand for independent advice and practical risk management solutions. Having Alain onboard is great for strengthening our momentum in the market and ensuring our clients are well-equipped to navigate the volatile macro-economic times we are experiencing, where strong client engagement is proving more and more essential.”

Smith will be responsible for leading the firm’s client relationship management and business origination in EMEA. Based in the firm’s London office, he will report to Haakon Blakstad, Chief Commercial Officer.

Validus specialises in providing financial risk management, fund finance advisory and technology solutions to the alternative investment industry.