Aliya Allen Joins GT as Partner

Aliya Allen, a new Partner in the Firm as of February 1st 2016, is the former CEO and Executive Director of the Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB), having spent four years focusing on strategic promotion and development of the Bahamas’ financial services industry.  Aliya was just recognized as being in the Citywealth IFC Power Women Top 200 for her outstanding services to the financial services industry.

At the BFSB Aliya led the development, drafting and introduction of the Investment Condominium (ICON), a structure for the organization of investment funds.  During her tenure with the Board, she spoke at many conferences on wealth and asset management structuring in the Bahamas.

Aliya is no stranger to Graham Thompson; prior to joining the BFSB she was a GT Partner specializing in financial services including investment funds, securities, trusts and estate planning.   Just before her departure from GT in 2012, she was listed in by Chambers Global as an up and coming leading lawyer in her field of expertise.  Aliya first joined Graham Thompson as an Associate Attorney in 2007.

In her early career, she worked as counsel to the Office of the Attorney General in international cooperation and civil matters.  Having worked in both the public and private sector in various capacities, Aliya has developed a unique perspective on government, regulatory, and banking practice.

She holds a LL.B (Hons) from the University of Buckingham and completed the Bar Vocational Course at Manchester University. She is admitted to the English and Bahamas Bars and is a member of the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn.

Managing  Partner  Judith Whitehead remarked, “Aliya Allen joining Graham Thompson as a Partner has significantly enhanced the depth and capacity of our financial and corporate team.  Not only does it give us exceptional capability in terms of corporate know-how and structuring for the domestic market, but also brings an unmatched level of expertise in the international financial / capital markets and the corporate securities markets.”

“We have the unique capacity of a legal team that can deliver the high level work that our clients demand, and furthermore enjoy the advantage of attorneys who are internationally respected and recognized.  This combination will also serve to promote the many strengths and unique characteristics of the Bahamas as a top tier financial center.”

“We applaud the professional excellence of the GT team, as they balance their professional obligations with their wider responsibilities to the community.”