Bestwick’s appointment reflects the organisation's expansion into high-growth emerging economies, such as China, India and the Gulf region, while maintaining its "market share closer to home," said chief executive officer Geoff Cook.

Bestwick, who retains her role as technical director, joined Jersey Finance in 2010, having formerly been managing partner of the Jersey office of international law firm Walkers.

At Walkers, she was based in the Cayman Islands, within the corporate and international finance department. Her practice encompassed investment funds, structured finance, secured lending, listings and yacht finance and registration; she was made a partner in 2003 and moved to Jersey when Walkers opened an office in St Helier in 2007.

Jersey Finance promotes and develops the benefits of Jersey as an international finance centre.