Leo Kassam
Managing Director
Americas
Funds


Area of expertise
- Corporate governance
- Investment structures and investment operations
- Alternative investments
- Compliance
- Financial products, valuations and financial institutions in general
- Offshore financial services
Responsibilities
Leo is a Managing Director of Hawksford’s Cayman business – previously known as Paradigm Governance Partners – which provides governance and fiduciary services to the investment funds industry. He serves as a professional independent director on the boards of alternative investment funds, investment management companies and other corporate vehicles.
As a senior industry professional with more than 25 years of experience, Leo possesses deep subject matter expertise across investment fund operations, fund oversight and governance, audit and regulatory matters. He works closely with investment managers executing a wide variety of complex investment strategies.
In addition to directorship services, Leo also provides financial consultancy, accounting, operations and compliance services to various clients including family offices. His broad industry insights, hands-on experience and commitment to best practices make him a trusted advisor in fund governance, operations and internal controls.
Leo actively collaborates with all facets of the organisation, striving to help it achieve its strategic and financial objectives both locally and globally.
Qualifications and memberships
- CA/CPA – Qualified Chartered Accountant – Canada
- Bachelor of Commerce degree – University of British Columbia
- Accredited Director designation – Chartered Governance Institute of Canada
- Professional Director registered pursuant to the Cayman Islands Director Registration and Licensing Act
Notable achievements
- Built strong client relationships, leading to numerous referrals based on exceptional client service
- Completed international secondments across different regions, gaining a global perspective on financial governance and investment management
- Led full-scale operations for a major service provider, managing daily client deliverables worldwide.
- Accomplished multiple-time marathon runner and recipient of the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award
- Earned a Six Sigma Belt, showcasing expertise in process improvement and operational efficiency