To mark Kristy Webber’s recent promotion to Client Director, we asked her to reflect on her career at HFL and share how her role has evolved since she first joined the company 12 years ago as a Trust Administrator.

Joining HFL and staying for the culture

I joined HFL 12 years ago as a Trust Administrator, as a previous colleague worked here and asked me to come in for a chat to talk about the role. From that first chat with Nigel Westgarth, I knew it would be the right move for me, as even then I felt the company had a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence, as well as family values. What’s kept me here is the culture. It’s collaborative, supportive, and always striving to innovate. I’ve had the chance to grow alongside the business, and that’s incredibly rewarding.

Evolving roles and career highlights at HFL

I started as a Trust Administrator in a small team of four, working with a range of clients. Early on, I became involved with one client’s VC funds, which sparked my interest in fund administration. In 2015, when this client launched their first regulated institutional fund, I effectively became HFL’s first fund team. By 2019, after returning from maternity leave and with a growing fund client base, I decided to focus fully on fund administration, keeping only my original VC trust client for a short time. Those early years were spent learning the fundamentals, building client relationships and gradually taking on more responsibility. Over time, I managed complex portfolios, led the fund team and most recently was promoted to Client Director, a role that reflects both my experience and passion for client service.

From paper trays to digital workflows: a look at change

The industry has become far more technology-driven, with automation and data analytics transforming how we deliver services. At HFL, we’ve embraced these changes, investing in systems that make us more efficient and responsive. I remember when paperwork was circulated in a daily signing tray, now everything is paperless, with on-demand electronic signing via DocuSign. VC funds have also grown in scale and sophistication, making our work even more dynamic. The biggest change at HFL has been our growth, we went from 10 employees when I joined to 76 today, with many more roles still open.

Guiding hands and memorable milestones at HFL

I’ve been fortunate to work with inspiring colleagues whose guidance has shaped both my career and my approach to leadership, emphasising collaboration, trust and continuous improvement. Nigel, and later Matt Westgarth-Smith, have ensured that HFL is a place that is not just a workplace, but somewhere that everyone wants to be. I can honestly say that I have never had that ‘Sunday dread’ of coming into work on a Monday.

Reflecting on my promotion

Personally, it’s a proud moment reflecting on years of hard work and dedication. Professionally, it’s an opportunity to make an even greater impact, strengthening client relationships, driving strategic initiatives and supporting the growth of our team. It’s about stepping up and helping shape the future of HFL.

What a typical day looks like in fund administration

No two days are the same! My day usually involves a mix of client meetings, team discussions and problem-solving to ensure smooth operations. What I enjoy most is the variety and the sense of achievement that comes from delivering exceptional service to our clients while supporting the development of our team.

Keeping pace in the fast-moving VC sector

It’s all about staying agile and proactive. We invest in technology, streamline processes and maintain clear communication with clients. Most importantly, we work as a team, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to meet deadlines and navigate challenges.

Why HFL feels different

It’s a culture of trust and collaboration. People genuinely care about each other and about doing the right thing for clients. There’s a strong emphasis on professional growth, innovation and maintaining a positive work environment, which makes HFL a great place to build a career.

What excites me about the next chapter at HFL

I’m excited to continue growing client relationships and finding new ways to add value through technology and expertise. With the recent Opera acquisition, HFL is well-positioned to invest in both our systems and our people, staying ahead of industry changes and continuing to lead in VC fund administration.

Twelve years in three words

Growth, Collaboration, Impact.

1. Growth because I’ve evolved personally and professionally

2. Collaboration because teamwork has been at the heart of everything

3. Impact because I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the success of our clients and the company.