A company which has a 23-strong team in the island, claims it has been enjoying unprecedented growth after a shift in focus to put its people first.

And the corporate services provider, based in Athol Street, Douglas, says its business boost has survived the health crisis.

Chief executive Andrew Morgan said Affinity Group’s growth had continued despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said: ’We were fortunate enough that lockdown was not too painful for us but, like everyone else, we’re certainly glad things are heading in the right direction.

’Many of the industries we serve are dependent on people being able to leave their homes and travel.

’We’re already a lot busier than we were a month ago and we’re expecting that uptick to continue significantly.’

Affinity Group altered its name from Affinity Management Services following a change in ownership structure and formation of a new management team in 2019.

Group director Chris Stewart said the company had continued to grow, despite the challenges of Covid-19 lockdown.

He said: ’As soon as I joined Affinity in November 2017, I felt this was an aptly named company and the unusual events of this year have done nothing to dissuade me of that opinion.

’Despite the prolonged period of lockdown due to Covid-19, we have continued to take on board new staff and new clients in to the Affinity family.

’It’s testament to the processes and, more importantly, the team we have in place that this has happened, in spite of the obvious complications of all working remotely.’

Established in 2004, the company has spent the past few months emphasising its personal approach to corporate services, by putting staff at the forefront of the company’s image.

Mr Morgan, who took over as chief executive last year, said: ’We work in what is traditionally a very corporate industry but what makes us different is our personal touch. Many of our clients have been with us since 2004 and our team have forged close bonds with them.

’Our team’s talent and approachability has always been our biggest asset, and, after the restructure, we took the decision to shout about that a bit more.

’So far, its paying off and this has been one of the most successful periods in our 16-year history.

’Having built our name within the yachting sector, Affinity now handles a wide range of corporate and fiduciary clients across various industries and is a corporate service provider in the gaming/fintech sector.

’Yachting remains an integral part of what we do and we recently surpassed more than £2 billion of assets under administration.

’In addition to growing the client portfolio, we have made Affinity an employer of choice by cultivating a friendly working environment where staff are trusted and empowered.

’The key to this has been communication; briefing our team properly on the group’s targets and objectives as well as helping staff to meet their own personal objectives however big or small.’

Affinity Group employs 23 people in Isle of Man and 11 in Malta.

Group director Alex Gardner said: ’ We’ve undergone a bit of a brand makeover.

’We have a new name, a new logo, a revamped website and there’s plenty more exciting updates to come.’