Management Team

Mr. Safwan Ahmed is a dynamic and forward-thinking finance professional, serving as the Head of Strategy for the EMEA Region at Graystone Capital. A qualified ACCA professional, he brings a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategic planning, and corporate finance, combined with a keen ability to navigate the evolving financial landscape. 

Although early in his career, Mr. Safwan has already demonstrated remarkable insight and a strategic mindset. Prior to joining Graystone Capital, he worked for two years with a leading American firm, where he gained valuable experience in financial consulting, business analysis, and risk assessment. His ability to synthesize complex financial data and translate it into actionable strategies has set him apart as a rising leader in the industry. 

As part of his role at Graystone Capital, Mr. Safwan is responsible for developing and executing high-impact strategies that drive business growth, enhance operational efficiency, and align with long-term corporate objectives. His fresh perspective, combined with a strong analytical approach, allows him to identify emerging market opportunities and optimize financial performance across the EMEA region. 

Areas of Expertise: 

• Strategic Financial Planning 

• Corporate Finance & Business Analysis 

• Market Research & Growth Strategies 

• Risk Assessment & Compliance 

• Investment & Portfolio Strategy 

A visionary professional with a passion for financial innovation, Mr. Safwan is committed to shaping Graystone Capital’s strategic direction and reinforcing its position as a trusted financial advisory firm in the region. His ambition, adaptability, and forward-looking approach make him an invaluable asset to the leadership team. 

Mr. Alok Singh serves as the Country Manager for India at Graystone Capital, bringing over two decades of expertise in Business Banking and Trade Finance. A former Vice President at Citi Group, he has a proven track record of driving business growth and delivering innovative financial solutions tailored to meet client needs.

At Graystone Capital, Mr. Singh leads the firm’s India operations, focusing on business development and Trade Finance solutions for mid-sized and large corporates. With his deep understanding of the Indian financial landscape and commitment to excellence, he plays a pivotal role in strengthening Graystone Capital’s presence in the region.

Ms. Kara Solez, a British national with extensive experience leading marketing initiatives for major UK-based brands, serves as the Head of Marketing for Graystone Capital MENA. With a proven track record of driving impactful marketing strategies, she specializes in brand development, digital engagement, and innovative campaigns tailored to resonate with diverse audiences.

At Graystone Capital, Ms. Solez oversees all marketing efforts across the MENA region,
ensuring the firm’s brand presence reflects its leadership in corporate finance and advisory services. Her expertise in creating dynamic marketing solutions positions Graystone Capital as a trusted name in the financial sector.

Ms. Alana Ales, a Canadian national, brings a wealth of expertise in branding, customer engagement, and digital strategy to her role as Digital Engagement and Brand Specialist at Graystone Capital MENA. With a career spanning notable organizations such as Automobile en Direct, Vape Depot, and PK Promotions in Canada, Alana has cultivated a strong reputation for enhancing brand visibility, optimizing customer relationship management (CRM), and delivering impactful digital solutions.

A multilingual professional, Alana specializes in crafting innovative branding initiatives and leveraging data-driven insights to elevate customer satisfaction and loyalty. Her ability to align brand strategies with business objectives ensures that Graystone Capital's presence in the MENA region reflects its position as a leader in corporate finance and advisory services.

With a proven track record in sales optimization, team performance enhancement, and strategic brand positioning, Ms. Ales is committed to driving Graystone Capital's digital and branding excellence across the region.

Ms. Jess Magee is the Head of Human Resources and Learning & Development at Graystone Capital, overseeing the HR vertical for the MENA region. With a strong commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration, Ms. Magee plays a critical role in aligning human capital strategies with Graystone Capital’s business objectives, ensuring the firm attracts, develops, and retains top talent in the financial services sector.

An accomplished HR leader, Ms. Magee holds an MBA from Sheffield Hallam University, where she honed her expertise in organizational development, strategic HR management, and leadership effectiveness. Her academic foundation complements her extensive professional
experience, equipping her with the skills to address the evolving challenges of workforce
management in a dynamic business environment.

Prior to joining Graystone Capital, Ms. Magee served as an HR Manager with HSBC London, where she was instrumental in driving initiatives related to talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement. Her work at HSBC also included implementing comprehensive learning and development programs that enhanced team performance and leadership capabilities across the organization.

At Graystone Capital, Ms. Magee spearheads strategic HR initiatives, including leadership development programs, succession planning, and workforce optimization. Her focus on employee well-being and professional growth has helped establish Graystone Capital as an employer of choice in the MENA region. In addition to leading HR operations, Ms. Magee is committed to fostering a learning-centric culture, ensuring employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their roles and contribute to the firm’s success.

With her expertise, leadership, and passion for people, Ms. Magee continues to drive transformational change, enabling Graystone Capital to maintain its competitive edge while nurturing a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Mr. Khaja Aijaz serves as the Head of Legal at Graystone Capital MENA, bringing over two decades of distinguished experience in Banking, Corporate, and Commercial Law. A seasoned legal professional, Mr. Khaja holds a law degree from one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious universities, specializing in English Law. His expertise spans complex financial transactions, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, and dispute resolution, making him a vital pillar of Graystone Capital’s leadership team.

As the Head of Legal, Mr. Khaja is responsible for overseeing all legal aspects of Graystone Capital’s operations across the MENA region. He provides strategic counsel to the company’s executive leadership, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks and mitigating legal risks associated with corporate finance, trade finance, and investment activities. His role involves negotiating and drafting high-stakes contracts, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and ensuring robust compliance with international and regional legal standards.

Prior to joining Graystone Capital, Mr. Khaja built a formidable reputation working with leading financial institutions and corporate entities, where he navigated intricate legal challenges and facilitated transformative transactions. His extensive experience in Banking Law includes advising on loan syndications, structured finance, and trade finance, while his expertise in Corporate Law encompasses corporate restructuring, joint ventures, and shareholder agreements.

Mr. Khaja is renowned for his meticulous approach to legal problem-solving and his ability to bridge the gap between legal intricacies and business objectives. His in-depth knowledge of English Law, combined with his understanding of the unique legal and regulatory environments in the MENA region, positions him as a trusted advisor to Graystone Capital’s clients and stakeholders.

A strong advocate for ethical business practices, Mr. Khaja also plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of compliance and integrity within Graystone Capital. His leadership of the legal team ensures that the firm not only meets its legal obligations but also upholds the highest standards of governance and accountability.

With his unmatched expertise, strategic mindset, and unwavering dedication to excellence, Mr. Khaja Aijaz continues to drive Graystone Capital’s legal success, safeguarding its operations and empowering its growth in the highly competitive financial sector.