Alongside the development of its three market-leading distribution brands – Sesame, Bankhall and PMS – and the group’s continued commitment to independent advice, SBG has also expanded into new areas to offer advisers greater choice. This includes the launch of a new wealth management proposition, its restricted advice service and new mortgage-related services.
SBG has increased its executive team to reflect the group’s broader shape, with head of wealth management Pan Andreas becoming wealth management director, and head of advisory services Jon Dear moving to the newly created role of marketing and propositions director.
SBG has also bolstered its compliance and risk function ahead of the new regulatory challenges that will be brought about by the transition from the FSA to FCA. Head of operations Julie Sadler will have a key role in this area and joins the executive team as operations director. Interim chief risk officer Shaun O’Leary, who joined SBG in July from Temple Risk Limited, is also part of the team along with Michael Couzens, who has moved to the new role of financial services development director.
George Higginson, Sesame Bankhall Group CEO, said: “SBG has made significant investments ahead of the RDR with a new broader range of services that are gaining real traction with advisers.
“Our new executive team reflects the developing shape of our group and will ensure that the improvements we are making keep pace with the ever-changing regulatory environment. We are committed to delivering valuable support to adviser firms – whatever their future business model.”
As a result of this new structure SBG managing director of distribution, Nick Kelly, is leaving the business to pursue other interests within the financial services sector. George Higginson commented: “Nick has had a key role in the successful development and growth of the Group over the last five years. He has added considerable value to the business, showing strong leadership and a passionate commitment during a challenging time for the sector. We wish him every success in his future career.”
