Steve Bernat (ONE Group Solutions): Revolutionizing Fund Governance with Employee Ownership
Steve Bernat is the Group Executive at One Group Solutions. He explains how this fund governance company stands out, not only for its investment fund specialists committed to excellence but also for its unique privately-owned business model. He discusses the core principles behind One's success, its approach to empowering employees, and its strategic vision for the future.
Can you describe ONE in few words?
ONE is a privately owned, independent company that is transforming fund governance by putting employee satisfaction at the heart of its mission—driving client success as a result. Over the past six years, ONE has earned a strong reputation in the global asset management industry, delivering customized governance solutions to more than 200 blue-chip clients from around the globe. With a team of over 130 dedicated professionals, ONE provides comprehensive coverage across both alternative and liquid asset classes. The company's strength lies in its egalitarian structure—free from hierarchical barriers—where collaboration thrives in a shared workspace. This inclusive, ownership-driven culture empowers every team member to take initiative and contribute meaningfully. It’s a business model that not only fosters excellence but also explains ONE’s exceptional staff retention.
“We don’t aim to be everything to everybody, but we strive to be the best at what we do as a fund governance solutions provider.”
How empowering your staff helps you to meet clients’ expectations?
ONE embraces the evolving industry landscape with enthusiasm, meeting clients' demand for pragmatic, tailor-made solutions both compliant and efficient. The company lever- ages cutting-edge technology while recognizing the paramount importance of human talent. ONE fosters a workplace culture that values authenticity, honesty, fairness, and passion, empowering employees to deliver exceptional service. This commitment to a positive work environment has earned ONE recognition from the Great Place to Work© program.
What is ONE's approach in the fund governance industry?
ONE’s future growth and service delivery are driven by a clear, strategic focus. Rather than aiming to be everything to everyone, we are committed to being the best at what we do delivering exceptional fund governance solutions.
As one of the last remaining privately owned companies in our sector, ONE benefits from the freedom to chart its own course. This independence allows for sustainable, organic growth and a strong focus on our core services: third-party management company, corporate secretarial services, and compliance solutions. While nurturing long-term relationships with existing clients remains central to our approach, we are also actively exploring new opportunities for expansion. With operations in Luxembourg, Ireland, and the United Kingdom—and representative offices in the Americas, Asia, and Zurich—we remain close to our clients, wherever they are. Backed by a dedicated team and a clear vision, ONE is well-positioned to continue leading innovation in the fund governance industry.
FACTS & FIGURES
-
Birthday: 9/03/1978
-
Place of birth: Luxembourg
-
Nationality: Luxembourgish
-
Children: 2
-
Languages: Luxembourgish, English, French, German
-
Hobbies: Travelling, tennis, sailing and skiing
MY FAVOURITE
-
Cities: Hong Kong
-
Restaurants: Owstellgleis (Hostert)
-
Places: Whitsunday Islands (Australia), Railay beach (Thailand), Bagan (Myanmar)
-
Music: Coldplay
-
Artwork: Photography by Sebastião Salgado
COMPANY
ONE group solutions
POSITION
Founding Partner and Group Executive