The Hedge Fund Association has opened a new chapter in London with future chapters planned for other major European hedge fund cities.

A launch event focused on distressed investing will be held on 5 October at the offices of law firm Brown Rudnick at 8 Clifford Street.

HFA is focused on business and professional development, lobbying to advocate for managers and investors, and public relations aimed at dispelling misperceptions and educating the media, investors, lawmakers and the public at large.

"Europe is one of the most dynamic regions in the alternative investment community, and it is vital that the Hedge Fund Association, a leading not-for-profit industry association for alternative investments in the US, has a strong presence here," says David Friedland, president of the Hedge Fund Association and president Magnum US Investments.

The European regional chapter will be led by Louise Verrill, the head of Brown Rudnick's European bankruptcy and corporate restructuring group. Verrill represents major creditors and stakeholders both in the UK and internationally, and has been involved in many high profile insolvency and restructuring litigation assignments including MG Rover, TXU, Euro Tunnel, Enron, Polestar, Lehman and Northern Rock. 

"I am delighted to be named the first chapter director in HFA's European expansion. In the US, HFA has been a powerful force for unifying the alternative investment community. I am excited to expand our firm's support of the HFA and the funds community, and look forward to advancing business opportunities for European hedge fund firms, investors and service providers."