AIFC introduces two new members to the Legal Advisory Council
The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. David Simpson and Mrs. Aigul Kenzhebayeva as new members of the Legal Advisory Council (LAC).
Established by the Order of the Governor of the AIFC on 28 February 2017, the LAC plays a key role in reviewing draft AIFC Acts from a common law perspective before their adoption by the Governor or other relevant AIFC bodies. The Council is chaired by Mr. Michael Blair KC (3 Verulam Buildings) and consists of distinguished international commercial practitioners and highly qualified English lawyers from leading global firms, including Hogan Lovells, Michelmores, Norton Rose Fulbright, White & Case, and 3 Verulam Buildings Chamber.
Mr. David Simpson is a highly experienced litigator specialising in banking, financial services, and civil fraud. His work ranges from leading complex, high-value fraud trials to handling sophisticated cases involving derivatives, collective investment schemes, electronic money, margin calls, and recovery of mistaken payments.
Notably, in 2017, Mr. Simpson played a pivotal role in shaping the AIFC’s legal framework, having been engaged by the Kazakh Ministry of Justice as lead draftsman in a major legislative development project. His contributions included drafting the high-level framework legislation establishing the AIFC and its regulatory authority, as well as subordinate legislation for the Astana International Exchange and the broader capital market development.
Mrs. Aigul Kenzhebayeva is a renowned legal professional with over 40 years of experience across legal research, private practice, corporate law, and leadership roles in international law firms. She holds advanced degrees, including a Master of Laws from Duke University, and actively contributes to legal advisory and arbitration bodies both in Kazakhstan and internationally.
Her deep knowledge of Kazakhstan’s legal system and expertise in international legal principles will strengthen the LAC’s ability to align the AIFC’s legal framework with global best practices while maintaining coherence with Kazakhstan’s national legislation. Mrs. Kenzhebayeva’s expertise in corporate governance, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance will also support the strategic development of AIFC law.
With the addition of Mr. Simpson and Mrs. Kenzhebayeva, the LAC continues to enhance its legal expertise, further reinforcing the AIFC’s commitment to a robust, transparent, and internationally aligned legal environment. Their contributions will be instrumental in advancing the AIFC’s position as a leading financial and legal hub in the region.
The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction with a favourable legal and regulatory environment and a developed infrastructure for starting and doing business, attracting investment, creating jobs and developing Kazakhstan’s economy. https://aifc.kz/
