Executive shake-up at Octane Holding

Octane says Alexander and Gonzenbach will continue to work closely together for the firm’s strategic development. ‘Gerald and I are strongly convinced of Octane’s superior business strategy,’ Alexander says.

‘To strengthen our group’s business model, we decided to expand our executive team. By switching our positions we will achieve a better integration of our mutual experience – more than 30 years of expertise in investments and alternative asset classes – for the benefit of our company, and ultimately, of our clients.’

James Canales, previously head of risk, will become the new chief investment officer, while Mustafa Zaidi, who has held the position since Octane’s launch, will focus on new strategic projects and remain as chairman of Octane’s funds. Mark Shore will succeed Canales as head of risk.

‘We are convinced that the current strengthening and even closer integration of all resources on the investment, research and risk side will allow Octane to improve its expertise in the delivery of customised hedge fund-based solutions with optimised risk/return characteristics,’ says Gonzenbach. ‘We will continue to strive for excellence and cutting-edge expertise.’

Founded in 2001, Octane has constructed various risk-profiled fund of hedge funds portfolios with assets under management exceeding USD1.2bn. The firm has its headquarters in Frauenfeld, Switzerland, with the research and risk team based in New York, client service and after-sales teams in Switzerland and South Africa, and custody, audit and administration services provided independently in Luxembourg.