Opera, a privately held company of fiduciary, corporate and fund administration businesses, is pleased to announce that Matt Westgarth-Smith, Managing Director of HFL Limited, has officially taken on broader leadership roles within Opera. This follows Opera’s successful acquisition of HFL Limited and receipt of full regulatory approval. 

Matt joins the Opera Limited board as Executive Director alongside Richard Collenette, Fintan Kennedy and Kim Sgarlata, strengthening the group’s collective leadership as Opera embarks on its next phase of growth. 

He also assumes the role of Group Head of Institutional Clients for Opera, working alongside Stuart Dowding who holds the role of Group Head of Private Clients. Matt’s expertise, network and commitment to innovation will be instrumental as the group grows across fund and corporate services.  

Commenting on his appointment, Matt Westgarth-Smith said: 

“It’s a privilege to join the Opera Board and lead the institutional client teams. These appointments ensure that HFL’s perspective and expertise are embedded in Opera’s long-term strategy. As part of the group’s governance team, I am committed to helping shape a future defined by innovation, performance and meaningful client partnerships. Each entity within Opera group shares a belief in purposeful growth and together we will unlock new opportunities while remaining true to the values that define us.” 

Kim Sgarlata, Group CEO and Executive Director, added: 

“Richard, Fintan and I are pleased to welcome Matt to the Opera leadership team. His deep expertise in serving institutional clients, combined with his track record of building innovative, people-first solutions at HFL, brings added strength to our leadership. He will be invaluable as we accelerate the delivery of our fund and corporate services strategy across the group. I look forward to working with him again as we shape Opera’s next chapter.” 

The ongoing integration of Amber Trust (now “Oak Bahamas”), HFL and Oak into Opera is being carefully managed using a thoughtful and collaborative approach, preserving the qualities that make each business unique while unlocking new opportunities through Opera’s investment in operational excellence and technology. Clients and colleagues can look forward to continuity, strengthened resources and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional service, long-term value and sustainable growth powered by people. 

Opera continues to evolve and grow with the acquisition of Accuro and Meritus (both subject to regulatory approval). Upon deal completion, Xavier Isaac, Accuro’s Chief Executive Officer, will also join the Opera Limited board as an Executive Director. 

Matt's appointment marks another key milestone in Opera’s strategic plan, Project Overture, which is focused on bringing together culturally aligned, client-focused businesses under a distinctive model of long-term ownership not seen elsewhere in the industry. 

Opera’s combined assets under administration exceed $37 billion and following the completion of the Accuro and Meritus acquisitions will rise to over $71.6 billion, with a team of 600 professionals across Bermuda, Geneva, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey, London, Mauritius and The Bahamas.