Havard was previously the chief operating officer at Loan.co.uk, where she oversaw compliance and risk, working closely with the firm’s CEO to deliver regulatory compliance.
Prior to that, Havard was the chief risk and compliance officer at Reassured Limited. In this role, she managed the risk and compliance functions and headed up the firm’s implementation of Consumer Duty, reporting directly to the CEO and the chair of the risk and compliance committee.
In her new role at HLPartnership, Havard will build on her extensive 20-plus years of experience in risk, compliance and governance across a range of banks, lenders and insurers, having occupied SMF-approved and board-level roles, as well as senior positions with PwC, JD Williams Financial Services and Ocean Finance.
Christopher Tanner, CEO of HLPartnership, said: “Laura’s appointment is a significant addition to HLPartnership as we continue to grow our network and deliver outstanding support to advisers. Her track record across lenders, banks and insurers, combined with her leadership at Reassured and Loan.co.uk, brings a wealth of expertise that will help us maintain the highest governance standards while ensuring strong Consumer Duty outcomes for clients.
“I would also like to thank Kay Leslie, who is leaving HLPartnership after more than four years as chief compliance officer. Kay has been instrumental in strengthening our compliance function, supporting advisers and guiding the business through a period of significant growth. We wish her every success for the future.”
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Havard (pictured) added: “I am excited to join HLPartnership at a time of such opportunity and ambition. The network has built an excellent reputation not only for the strength of its adviser support and forward-looking innovation, but also for its commitment to delivering good outcomes for consumers.
“I look forward to working with the board, colleagues and members to ensure we continue to uphold the highest standards of compliance, maintain regulatory excellence and provide advisers with the confidence to thrive in a changing market.”
