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Pierre Weimerskirch and Kavitha Ramachandran (Apex Group): Harmonising Client Solutions
Apex Group’s expansion over the past three years has made it one of the largest fund service providers in Luxembourg and created a launchpad for further growth in the future, according to regional head Pierre Weimerskirch and chief operating officer for Luxembourg Kavitha Ramachandran.
How has Apex forged a single business out of the companies it acquired over the past three years?
PW: When I joined Apex, the plan was to reduce the number of legal entities in Luxembourg acquired through the group’s acquisitions. Today we have reached our target operating model in terms of the integration of our various entities in Luxembourg, and with around 1,200 people we are one of the largest, if not the largest, fund service providers.
KR: A well-integrated multi-platform approach provides a substantial benefit in the delivery of services to our clients. We make sure clients have the right system for their specific needs and are able to obtain what they need from a system and process perspective.
How does Luxembourg fit into the global Apex Group structure?
KR: Being extremely lean and reactive to solve clients’ issues is the crux of the process that we are seeking to introduce internationally across our offices in more than 40 countries, allowing us to service clients around the world and tailor our services to their needs. This is why it’s important to ensure we have aligned processes, are using systems in the most efficient manner, and are delivering the right services, which is a top priority for us.
PW: We have created this platform through the integration of different entities, but also through the roll-out of new technology, giving us the capability to further enhance and harmonise our servicing model.
“Because Apex is active in more than 40 countries, recruits in Luxembourg can have the opportunity to gain different experiences elsewhere in the world.”
How do you see the prospects for Apex and the fund services industry now and in the future?
PW: Our aim is to ensure clients from all over the world have the same experience with the service we are delivering in Luxembourg and other countries. The next step is to promote and communicate the single Apex brand both in Luxembourg and globally.
KR: Innovation is front and centre for us, driven by the technology that we've been consistently building over the years. Our workflows are being harmonised thanks to the technology that we use to deliver for our clients. That goes hand in hand with ensuring we have the skilled talent to support it.
PW: Due to our comprehensive portfolio of services, we offer a diverse range of opportunities and positions for employees, making Apex especially appealing. And we are a global business active in more than 40 countries, which gives recruits in Luxembourg the opportunity to work in other countries and gain different experiences.