MoME services in Jersey: a practical solution for fund managers

For new fund managers launching in Jersey, or relocating to the island, operational substance and governance are key considerations from the outset. 

Jersey is a well-regulated, globally respected funds jurisdiction but establishing a compliant, efficient on-island management structure requires careful planning. Securing local expertise, demonstrating substance and setting up compliance, risk and operational frameworks can be challenging for investment teams focused on launching and running their funds. 

Responding to this challenge, Jersey introduced managed office and management entity (MoME) services - a specific regulatory framework unique to the island. MoME services offer a practical solution, enabling managers to smoothly establish a Jersey presence while meeting regulatory expectations. 

In this article, Ogier Global’s Fund Administration team outline the key considerations for fund managers looking to launch or relocate to Jersey and how MoME services can help. 

The practical challenges of setting up in Jersey 

Fund managers looking to set up in Jersey will need to: 

• establish appropriate governance and oversight arrangements 
• ensure local substance, including experienced directors and senior oversight 
• put in place compliance, risk and operational frameworks 
• recruit or retain local staff and infrastructure 
• manage ongoing regulatory reporting and interaction with the regulator 

For many managers, particularly start-ups, emerging teams or firms expanding into a new jurisdiction, this can create significant cost, time and management distraction. Building a full local back-office function may not be commercially efficient in the early stages, yet regulatory expectations must still be met from day one. 

Where MoME services fit

Managers of a managed entity (MoME) services provide a practical alternative. 

Rather than building and maintaining a standalone operational infrastructure, a manager can appoint a regulated service provider to deliver the governance, oversight and operational support required under Jersey’s regulatory framework. 

MoME is particularly relevant for: 

• first-time managers establishing in Jersey 
• firms testing a new strategy or market 
• managers relocating from another jurisdiction 
• established houses seeking a lean, scalable Jersey presence 

Why fund managers use MoME services in Jersey 

• Meet regulatory and substance requirements efficiently
  
  Jersey’s regulatory framework and economic substance regime require demonstrable management and control on the island. A MoME arrangement can provide the physical presence, governance infrastructure and local support needed to show compliance, without requiring managers to establish a fully independent operational platform at the outset.
  
  
• Avoid the immediate need for local hires and operational build-out
  
  Establishing a standalone office typically involves hiring qualified personnel, securing premises and setting up operational systems. A MoME model allows managers to access existing office space, experienced professionals and operational support. This reduces the initial complexity and cost.
  
  
• Launch or relocate to Jersey more quickly
  
  When timing is critical, MoME services allow managers to leverage an established management framework, which can speed up operational readiness.
  
  
• Scale their presence over time as their business grows
  
  MoME services can be an interim or transitional solution, allowing managers to scale their Jersey presence. Over time, the structure can be expanded or transitioned to a more permanent standalone model if required.
  
  Keep internal resources focused on investment strategy and performance.
  
  By outsourcing certain operational and governance functions, investment teams can concentrate on capital raising, portfolio management and performance delivery. 

How Ogier Global can help

If you are planning to launch a new manager in Jersey or relocate an existing function, we can help you to navigate the operational requirements and assess whether a MoME structure offers the right balance of efficiency, scalability and regulatory assurance.  

Ogier Global’s Jersey Fund Administration team, led by Mark Grenyer, provides full MoME services designed to help managers establish and operate efficiently while maintaining strong governance and regulatory confidence. 

For a detailed overview of our offering, see our guide to MoME services: view our guide to MoME services - or contact the team below. 

About Ogier

Ogier is a professional services firm with the knowledge and expertise to handle the most demanding and complex transactions and provide expert, efficient and cost-effective services to all our clients. We regularly win awards for the quality of our client service, our work and our people.

Disclaimer

This client briefing has been prepared for clients and professional associates of Ogier. The information and expressions of opinion which it contains are not intended to be a comprehensive study or to provide legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice concerning individual situations.

Regulatory information can be found under Legal Notice