Prior to joining Dominion, Valerie spent more than 15 years practising as Head of Legal, Family Office of an UHNW Asian family, and as Special Counsel in an international law firm providing legal and fiduciary, and trust-related advice, focusing in the areas of wealth management, structuring & estate planning, establishment of trusts, private trust companies and administration of trusts and related services.
In terms of professional qualifications and achievements, Valerie is a qualified member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, UK (STEP) since 2004 and has obtained advanced certification from STEP for Advising Family Business and Family Business Governance, as well as STEP Advanced Certificate in Trust Disputes. She is also trained as a lawyer, holding LLB, LLM from University of London (2003), and was admitted as a Barrister-at-Law, Middle Temple (2001). In addition, Valerie completed and obtained certification from the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, UK (1989).
With Valerie’s extensive years of experience working with UHNW owners, senior management and stakeholders on preparation and structuring of wealth plans, taking into account optimum tax planning consideration in multi-jurisdictions, and her capability to support families in inter-generational succession planning through the adoption of an effective framework for ownership, family and business governance, Valerie is in a good stead to develop and customize a bespoke and integrated solution for all clients looking for advice in intergenerational transfer of wealth and wealth preservation, resolution of family disputes, family office operations as well as philanthropy. Another value-add Valerie brings to business families and family businesses is her wealth of experience as a Corporate lawyer, advising and handling M&A/joint ventures, corporate finance, capital market, banking and private equity investments, including establishment of Funds, advisory and Fund management matters, real estate, and providing advice in ship purchase (including new buildings) and leasing matters.
In her spare time, Valerie enjoys reading and catching up on her professional development, and also taking leisurely walks to relax and appreciate the nature around us.