Wendy Warren – a distinguished leader in wealth management and governance – blends her extensive expertise with a passion for crafting tailored solutions for her global clients.
“I like to solve puzzles, and that factors into what I do – listening, learning, and bringing clients to a positive conclusion.”
As the founder and managing director of Caystone Solutions, Wendy oversees a dedicated team that supports family offices, asset managers, and private clients in preserving and growing their wealth.
Driving development in the Bahamas’ financial sector
Wendy’s career in wealth management and governance began with a strong foundation in financial services. Starting at KPMG, she gained valuable insights through auditing across the financial services spectrum. “I was able to gain some insights into the various arms and limbs of the industry,” she recalls.
In 1992, Wendy began working with a family office. “It was a unique perspective to see all of those elements being brought together,” she says, reflecting on the experience of helping clients manage cross-border financial activities while ensuring compliance. This early exposure shaped her understanding of the importance of governance and administration. “Without strong governance and administration, the pursuits will quickly be derailed,” Wendy emphasises.
Her entrepreneurial journey began two years later, when she co-founded a fund administration business in the Bahamas, which grew into a thriving operation. Later, Wendy became CEO and Executive Director of the Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB). During her 11-year tenure, she spearheaded efforts to introduce progressive legislation, enhance the country’s competitive positioning, and promote collaboration among stakeholders. “It was about bringing together the best minds to craft initiatives that positioned the Bahamas as a serious participant in an increasingly competitive global industry,” Wendy explains.
“What drove me was the development element,” she reflects. “Seeing the transformative impact of our efforts on the industry and the country was incredibly rewarding.”
Founding Caystone
In 2012, Wendy founded Caystone, a boutique firm specialising in governance and wealth management services. She envisioned Caystone as a client-focused alternative in an industry dominated by large, impersonal firms. “When we started, we were new to the market. There were a lot of players here already, and the challenge was to position ourselves and build a brand,” she recalls.
Caystone’s mission is rooted in providing bespoke services tailored to the unique needs of family offices, asset managers, and private clients. “Our goal is always to help clients with their specific needs and offer the right solutions for them,” Wendy explains.
Over the years, Caystone has gained a reputation for reliability and excellence. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know we’re making a difference in people’s lives by helping them preserve and grow their wealth,” Wendy says, reflecting on the work that motivates her and the business she’s built.
The Bahamas: a hub for wealth and growth
For Wendy, the Bahamas is more than just a business base – it’s home. “I was born in the Bahamas, I grew up in the Bahamas, and I believe it’s an incredible place in which to do business,” she affirms. She is passionate about showcasing the talent and industrious spirit of the Bahamian people. “We have a strong history of being able to deliver at a very high level,” she emphasises, pointing to the country’s ability to attract and retain world-class professionals.
Wendy believes the Bahamas offers a unique balance in how it serves international clients. “There’s a mutual benefit gained—both for the persons who engage in the Bahamas and ourselves as Bahamians,” she explains. This culture, coupled with respect for wealth creators and a focus on sustainable growth, makes the Bahamas an ideal hub for wealth management.
Client-first approach
No two days are the same for Wendy and her team at Caystone. “The typical day at work is about being available and accessible to clients,” she says. A client-first approach drives every aspect of the company’s operations.
Wendy describes her role as bringing together a dynamic team to meet client priorities. “It is not a single individual pursuit. It is pursued by a team,” she explains. This collaborative approach ensures that Caystone remains flexible and responsive. “Our priorities are not what sets our day’s agenda – it is the client’s priority.”
“But I find it engaging, I find it fulfilling, and I really love what I do.”
Global needs
Wendy’s work takes her across borders, managing the complexities of an increasingly integrated financial system. Her clients are based around the world, requiring her team to navigate regulatory and tax compliance, economic substance rules, and more.
“It’s challenging because it’s a very dynamic environment,” Wendy admits. However, she thrives on the learning opportunities that come with her international practice. “Our clients are extraordinarily committed to getting it right,” she says, which makes the work both rewarding and demanding.
“It brings the world back into the Bahamas,” she smiles.
International connections
The international nature of Wendy’s work means that having access to a global network of professionals is a necessity. IR Global ensures that these connections are of the highest calibre. “With IR Global, we have assurance as to the quality of persons we are interacting with – the calibre of the people in the network is at a premier level,” she shares.
Wendy also values the opportunities that the network has provided, through conferences and collaboration. “We have drawn on persons we’ve met through IR Global and undertaken business with them, so it’s been a very fruitful arrangement,” she adds.
Collective success
Wendy finds her greatest fulfilment in mentoring others and seeing their success. “I’ve had the opportunity to engage with young and not-so-young professionals and to be a part of curating their skill sets,” she shares. Watching these individuals grow and thrive in their careers is a source of pride for her.
She emphasises her belief in collective success, adding: “I think that’s very important to me – that we’re not about pursuits for pursuits sake, but about bringing a community together and all growing along the way.”
The advice Wendy has for younger professionals reflects her own journey. “Undertake all of your pursuits with passion, and recognise that hard work is required,” she says. She also emphasises the importance of integrity and balance. “Be deliberate in your pursuits, but also maintain healthy relationships and lifestyles,” she advises.
The front line of financial services
Operating from the Caribbean comes with unique challenges, particularly in overcoming perceptions about the region. “There’s an assumption that you operate on Caribbean time or Caribbean standards,” Wendy notes.
The evolving nature of the financial services industry also presents hurdles. “We’ve moved from a very structured financial services environment to one where clients are increasingly hands-on,” she explains. Building a culture at Caystone that meets these demands has required significant effort. “We are the front line – there isn’t another line,” she emphasises.
Future outlook
As Caystone continues to grow, Wendy is focused on expanding its global footprint while maintaining the boutique, personalised nature of the business. “We want to have this concept of availability and accessibility to our clients in even greater ways,” she says.
With team members in multiple jurisdictions, the company aims to support clients seamlessly across time zones. “We are really focused on having a global footprint but still doing it in a niche and boutique fashion,” Wendy explains. This strategic vision ensures that Caystone remains a trusted partner for clients worldwide.
Living simply and giving back
Despite her demanding career, Wendy leads a balanced personal life centred around family and community. “I’m extraordinarily family oriented. Any time I have to spend with family and friends, it’s a good day,” she says. “I live a quite simple and uncomplicated life, because work is sufficiently complicated.”
Travel and philanthropy are also close to her heart. “I’m involved with a number of charities and always look for ways to give back,” Wendy notes. “I’m very passionate about the Bahamas and ensuring that the country continues to provide a business environment by which others can continue to succeed within the jurisdiction.”