TECHNOLOGY
Synaptic Systems
Neil Andrews has been appointed as head of product development at Synaptic Systems, the software provider for the IFA market.
Andrews’ responsibilities will include product evolution and enhancement, and he will also be responsible for the efficient and profitable delivery of the company’s existing product range.
He joins Synaptic Systems after five years with Misys, the banking and securities software house. Prior to this, he was head of development for Misys business-to-business portals for two and a half years, following experience as location branch manager in the IFA services arm of the firm.
Andrews has also held positions as a financial adviser and sales manager with various product providers in his 15 years’ experience in the finance industry.
He said: ‘The IFA market place is changing at a perhaps a faster rate today than at any time in the past. The challenge to technology providers is to help the IFA continue to demonstrate independence and add value in an uncertain future. I am delighted to be joining Synaptic Systems, an organisation with a track record of designing innovative products.’
IFAS
Direct Life and Pensions
Direct Life and Pensions has appointed Rob Quayle as its operations director. His duties include overseeing business growth following the company’s purchase by the Skipton Building Society.
He will be running Lifequote, the life and protection insurance intermediary business, and developing business-to-business relationships. Quayle comes to the company from Interactive Investor and Computer Sciences Corporation, and he has over 10 years’ experience in operational management, and a market-leading knowledge of the use of IT in financial services.
Michael Ward, managing director of Direct Life and Pensions, said: ‘Rob’s appointment will broaden the management experience within Direct Life and Pensions and add strength to the board. In particular, his expertise will enable us to develop the affinity and e-commerce sides of our business.’
LENDERS
Britannia Building Society
Jez Maiden has taken the position of director of finance for Britannia Building Society. He will report to group finance director, Neville Richardson, and his responsibilities include managing the finance, business improvement and internal audit/group risk management departments.
Maiden joins Britannia from Hickson International, where he was the group’s finance director. Previous positions include working for Lever Brothers and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Commenting on the new position, Maiden said: ‘I am looking forward to working for Britannia, a strong brand with a bright future and I relish the many challenges this competitive financial service sector has to offer.’
Cheshire Building Society
Cheshire Building Society has announced the appointment of Jason Gaunt as its new marketing director, following the recent retirement of Paul Knight.
Gaunt gained his strategic marketing experience at solicitors Addleshaw Booth and at Leeds & Holbeck, where he was head of marketing. Prior to this, he held the position of group strategy implementation manager at Bradford & Bingley.
