At the same time, Richard Howells has left his position as chief operating officer (COO) at Sesame to join LSL as financial services COO.
Round will take up his NED role at the end of February to focus on broker engagement as well as establish and chair a new broker council.
He has worked for LSL since 2004 when he joined as compliance and relationship director. In 2010, he was made group financial services director.
Subject to approval from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Howells will move into the position of managing director of LSL’s financial services division in February. Howells joined Sesame in 2019 as a managing director.
LSL: ‘A key part in transforming our business’
David Stewart, LSL Group CEO, said: “Jon has played a key part in transforming our financial services business to the extent that the Primis network and TMA Mortgage Club are at the very heart of our strategy. From relatively small beginnings, our members now advise on over 10 per cent of new mortgages in the UK – it’s a great achievement that would not have happened without Jon. I’m therefore really pleased that this is not the end of the story and I’m delighted that Jon has agreed to continue to work with us as a non-executive director (NED) of Primis and TMA companies.
“I am also delighted to welcome Richard Howells to LSL. With over 35 years in the industry and a wealth of experience of intermediary businesses, Richard is a great addition to the team and I look forward to working with Richard as we continue to place our Financial Services business at the heart of the group’s growth strategy.”
Round (pictured) added: “Since joining the LSL Group nearly 20 years ago and taking on the role of leading the FS division, I have been genuinely blessed to work with so many outstanding people and businesses.
“The successful growth of Primis and TMA, coupled with the recent acquisition of TenetLime have provided a really strong foundation for the next chapter of success. It has been an incredible journey so far and I am truly proud of what the businesses have achieved under my leadership. I am looking forward to transitioning to my new role as a NED and working with Richard to ensure an effective handover.”
