Virgin Islands attorney Ayana Hull has been appointed as a partner at Maples and Calder, part of the global Maples Group. This strategic move enhances the firm’s presence in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and its global regulatory capabilities. Hull will lead the Regulatory & Financial Services team, bringing over 20 years of expertise in BVI commercial and regulatory law.
Hull’s extensive background includes advising corporations, financial institutions, and high-net-worth clients on various matters such as regulatory compliance, licensing, anti-money laundering, and corporate structuring. She is particularly noted for her work on the application of BVI regulatory legislation to virtual asset service providers. Her recognition in the Legal 500 as a leading partner in the BVI Regulatory and Compliance Guide further underscores her expertise in the field.
Strategic Hire for Maples Group
Commenting on Hull’s appointment, Chris Capewell, Partner and Global Head of the Regulatory & Financial Services team, expressed enthusiasm about her joining the firm. “With over two decades of experience practising law in the BVI, Ayana has an exceptional depth of knowledge of the territory’s regulatory landscape and an outstanding reputation in the market,” said Capewell. He emphasized that Hull’s expertise, especially in digital assets and financial services regulation, will be crucial as clients face an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Chris Newton, Managing Partner of the BVI office, highlighted Hull’s unique qualifications. “Ayana’s combination of private practice experience and her tenure at the BVI Financial Services Commission provides her with an unparalleled understanding of how regulation operates in this jurisdiction,” Newton remarked. He noted that clients would greatly benefit from her practical, solutions-oriented approach.
Commitment to Regulatory Frameworks
Hull has a notable history with the BVI Financial Services Commission, where she continues to influence the territory’s regulatory framework. She chairs the Commission’s Securities and Investment Business Act Advisory Committee and is a member of its Virtual Asset Services Provider Advisory Committee. Additionally, Hull serves on the BVI Finance Marketing and Business Development sub-committee.
Reflecting on her new role, Hull expressed excitement about joining Maples Group at a critical juncture for the BVI’s financial services sector. “I am thrilled to join the Maples Group at such a pivotal time for the BVI’s financial services industry,” she stated. “The firm’s global platform and commitment to the BVI market provide an ideal foundation for serving clients navigating the territory’s regulatory requirements.”
Hull’s appointment comes as the BVI seeks to strengthen its position in global financial services regulation, especially in emerging fields such as digital assets and virtual asset service providers. Her leadership is expected to play a significant role in guiding clients through the evolving landscape of regulatory compliance in the BVI.
