Updates from PRAXIS

Praxis announces new MD in BVI

Independent professional services group Praxis has appointed highly experienced private wealth specialist Joan Johnson as Managing Director of its British Virgin Islands (BVI) office.

Joan joined Praxis in 2023 and previously served as Executive Director – Head of Trust and Corporate Services, BVI, with responsibility for the day-to-day operations and management of the 21-strong local Praxis team.

Her appointment is a natural development for the business, which first established roots in 1998, as Nerine Trust Company (BVI) Limited, and has been focused on the strategic expansion of the private wealth offering, building on the solid foundations of its corporate services presence.

Commenting on her appointment, Joan said: “The BVI continues to play an important role in international structuring, particularly for clients in Asia, and I’m delighted to be taking on this role at such a pivotal time for our business and our clients.

“I look forward to continuing to work alongside our experienced team, supporting clients with tailored, responsive service backed by the wider strength and scale of the Praxis Group.”

Praxis in the BVI works closely with its Hong Kong SAR offices, where demand for high touch, locally delivered services continues to grow, enabling clients in Greater China and Southeast Asia to manage their international assets efficiently. Since 2008, average wealth per adult in the region has grown by 122%, with the PRC now home to the world’s second-largest population of millionaires.

Group CEO, Rob Fearis said: “Joan provides thoughtful and steady leadership, and has played a key role in advancing our solution-led approach to client services across both private wealth and corporate services, championing BVI services across our global offices.

“Her appointment reflects our confidence in her ability to continue driving growth and high-quality service delivery.”

A highly-regarded private client adviser, Joan was recently voted Chair of STEP BVI, effective 23 April.

Praxis earns back-to-back STEP Private Client Awards nominations

Independent professional services group Praxis has been shortlisted for Trust Company of the Year (Large Firm) at the prestigious 2025 STEP Private Client Awards, reaffirming its position as a leading provider in the international private wealth sector.

The nomination marks consecutive recognition in this category following a shortlisting in 2024. This year’s awards attracted a high number of entries, with 337 submissions across 25 countries.

Now in their 20th year, the STEP Private Client Awards are widely regarded as the benchmark for excellence across the fiduciary and private client professions. Judged by a panel of industry peers, the awards recognise outstanding achievement in areas including technical expertise, client service, innovation and ethical conduct.

Commenting on the announcement, John Medina, Group Head of Private Wealth said: “I’m incredibly proud that our global team has been shortlisted once again. This recognition reflects our long-standing philosophy of building trust, fostering long-term relationships, and delivering tailored services to clients.”

Rob Fearis, Group CEO, added: “My congratulations to our Private Wealth division. This is a great achievement that highlights the depth of our expertise and leadership.

“Given the large number of submissions, STEP has described the competition as ‘intense’ so for an independent firm of our size to be shortlisted again alongside some of our industry’s most respected providers is a testament to the dedication and passion of our global team.”

Winners will be announced at a ceremony in London this September.

ABOUT PRAXIS

Praxis is an independent, leading provider of bespoke private wealth, corporate & fund administration, pensions & employer solutions, and yacht services to individuals, families, and corporate and institutional clients across the world. 

Praxis is the trading name of Praxis Group Limited, one of the largest independent financial services groups headquartered in the Channel Islands and employing around 400 staff globally.

Our clients’ interests are at the forefront of everything we do. We are focused on delivering excellence in client service at every opportunity. A consistent quality of thinking that has shaped our reputation for innovation and proven delivery for over 50 years.

www.praxisgroup.com