Smitheringale will retain and develop relationships with existing appointed representatives and grow the number of national advisers within the network.
He joins the network after holding a variety of leadership and board roles, specialising in sales, marketing communications, business development and client relationship management, primarily at Skipton Building Society.
Financial Advice Network is part of Shepherds Friendly Society Group and the only network owned by a mutual society in the UK.
The network, formally known as the Shepherds Network, relaunched in April 2014 with new features for advisers including dedicated one-to-one support on its website and discounted fees for quality business submissions.
It said it would be looking to grow business through partnerships with financial advisers who shared the network’s mutual values.
Mark Smitheringale, managing director, said: “I was attracted to Financial Advice Network because its adviser proposition is underpinned by the values of mutuality, which is unique in the marketplace. I am looking forward to leading the business as it grows and develops.”
Ann-Marie O’Dea, CEO of Shepherds Friendly Society added: “I’m delighted to have Mark on board, his experience in the industry is just what we need as we enter an exciting new phase of growth.”
