Praxis BVI strengthens regulatory and investment leadership to support intermediaries and cross-border structures

Praxis in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) has entered the next phase of its growth with two strategic senior hires and a move to new premises, reinforcing its commitment to supporting intermediaries and clients with cross-border structuring and investment solutions. 

Nichola Douglas has joined as Director of Investment Business and Regulatory Affairs, and Lesia Grazette as Head of Compliance. The appointments enhance Praxis’ ability to support complex, multi-jurisdictional structures and regulated investment business, at a time when intermediaries are seeking greater certainty, responsiveness and technical depth from their offshore partners. 

Nichola is a qualified lawyer in both the BVI and Jamaica, a Notary Public and a Commissioner for Oaths, with over 25 years’ experience in financial services. In her role, she will lead investment business strategy, regulatory engagement and oversight of regulated activities, including fund-related structures and investment vehicles. 

Her experience enhances the independent Group’s regional capability to support managers, promoters and professional advisers establishing BVI funds and investment structures, ensuring regulatory clarity from formation to ongoing administration. 

Lesia brings 30 years of industry experience, including two decades in senior compliance roles within trust and corporate services providers. Her role on the Company Law Review Advisory Committee has contributed to shaping BVI company legislation and through her involvement with the BVI Association of Compliance Officers, Lesia actively participates in advancing best practice across the financial services sector. She is also a Commissioner for Oaths, holding a position of professional trust within the jurisdiction. 

Lesia’s deep regulatory expertise and insight into evolving compliance expectations strengthen Praxis’ robust governance framework, providing intermediaries with confidence that structures are established and administered in line with both regulatory requirements and international standards. 

Joan Johnson, Managing Director of Praxis BVI, said: “Intermediaries and fund managers are increasingly focused on regulatory certainty, technical depth and speed of execution when establishing cross-border structures. 

“The BVI remains a highly effective jurisdiction for investment vehicles and international structuring, and our role is to ensure clients and their advisers receive clear guidance, strong governance and responsive administration.” 

Founded as Nerine Trust in 1998 and acquired by Praxis in 2018, the BVI business works closely with colleagues across the Group, particularly in Hong Kong SAR and Guernsey. This integrated approach enables intermediaries to access coordinated cross-border structuring solutions, corporate services and fund administration support through a single, well-governed network. 

The relocation to new premises at Akara Building, Road Town, in December 2025, reflects continued growth and investment in the BVI. The office was officially opened by Group CEO, Robert Fearis, at a reception in February. The event was also attended by John Medina, Group Head of Private Wealth, together with clients, intermediaries and partners from the jurisdiction’s established business community.