Did you know the global funds industry started with a Dutch merchant and a big idea over 200 years ago?
Fast forward to today, and the Channel Islands are at the centre of this multi-trillion-dollar industry — not just as a trusted home for international funds, but as a launchpad for exciting careers in finance.
Let’s take a quick tour through history, opportunity, and what it means for your career.
A Brief History of Funds
Just like Trust and Compliance the idea of pooling money to invest collectively is not new.
- 1774: Dutch merchant Abraham van Ketwich launches Eendragt Maakt Magt (“Unity Creates Strength”) — the world’s first professionally managed fund. (See image – right)
- 1800s: Funds spread to Scotland and the US, laying the groundwork for global investing.
- 1924: The first open-ended mutual fund is born in Massachusetts — a model still used today.
- Post-1929: Regulations kick in, protecting investors and building trust.
- 1970s–Today: Innovation explodes — index funds, ETFs, green funds, and more.
From humble beginnings to high-tech investing, funds have always been about one thing: pooling resources to power growth.
Careers in Funds
Career Progression & Earning Potential
Breaking into the funds sector usually follows a few well-trodden entry paths, depending on whether someone wants to go into administration, accounting, compliance and risk or support functions
In the Channel Islands you will primarily find 4 key role functions as a main theme to the market, these being:
- Fund Administration – A client-focused role involving the coordination and execution of transactions, supporting the onboarding of investors, maintaining investor records, and working with various professionals as required.
- Fund Accounting – A client-focused financial role that covers maintaining accounts and reports, tracking investment activities, and managing calculations and transactions relating to funds.
- Compliance and Risk – This area includes a variety of roles, ranging from client-facing responsibilities such as onboarding new clients, to monitoring and risk-prevention work. Tasks may include reviewing company and fund activities, assessing policies and procedures, advising the business on regulatory changes, and training staff.
- Company Secretarial – A specialist role that supports the governance and control of the business. Responsibilities include recording decisions, maintaining official records, supporting the board of directors, and ensuring the correct principles and rules are followed.
What Can You Earn?
- Entry/Junior level roles: £24,000 – £34,000
- Mid Level: £35,000 – £60,000, with significant growth potential.
- Senior Level: £70,000 – £100,000+ if you move into directorship roles.
Why Choose a Career in Funds?
Working in funds means joining a global network with real impact.
✨ Transferable skills
✨ Diverse career paths
✨ Structured progression
✨ Future-focused innovation
✨ High demand for talent
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to lead, the Channel Islands funds industry offers opportunity at every level.
Current Opportunities in the Sector
Ready to take the leap? We’re actively recruiting for roles in the funds sector:
Senior Fund Accountant – Venture Capital
Company Secretary – Assistant Vice President
Client Relationship Manager – Private Credit
…and more (please see our website)
Let’s Get Started
At FirstCall Recruitment, we connect ambitious professionals with exciting opportunities in the funds industry. Whether you’re launching your career or stepping into leadership, now is the time.
Contact us today to explore your options:
Email: info@firstcall.co.gg
Phone: 01481 714634
