Mark, who assumes the position with immediate effect, is currently commercial development director at Openwork, a role he has held since joining the network in November 2010.
In his new role Mark will assume responsibility for all elements of Openwork’s distribution, including adviser recruitment, marketing and the development of the network’s overall proposition strategy. He will also assume operational responsibility for developing Openwork’s IFA network capability and take on a management role across its key corporate accounts.
Prior to joining Openwork, Mark worked at Living Time, where he was distribution and partnerships director responsible for all sales distribution, strategy and key deals throughout the UK. Mark has previously worked for companies including Prudential, where he was distribution director, responsible for distribution throughout Europe and the Middle East, and AXA, where he was national sales manager.
Commenting on Mark’s appointment, Mary-Anne McIntyre, chief executive officer at Openwork, said: “Mark has already made a significant contribution to shaping our strategy for RDR and I am really pleased that he has taken on this role to help us through this important transition for Openwork. Mark’s experience of leading organisations towards the realisation of equity value will be vital in the coming years, while the strong relationships he has already built with many of our advisers clearly demonstrates his great ability to understand their needs and put them at the heart of our company.”
Mark Duckworth said: “Since joining Openwork I have been extremely impressed by both the quality of advisers in the network and the community spirit they have engendered. That collegiate approach – combined with our leading proposition strategy and strong capital support – means Openwork has everything in place to thrive in a RDR world and I am very excited to assume this position as we look to drive the business forward over the coming months and years.”
