Cirencester Friendly has appointed Paul Shepherd to the newly created role of key account manager.

Shepherd (pictured) has over 20 years’ financial services experience having held various roles within the Society over the past 12 years. Previously, he held sales roles at Lincoln Financial Group and Eagle Star.

In his new role he will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with the Society’s key accounts throughout the UK, as well as promoting the Society to new advisers in order to grow and develop new business opportunities.

Susie Beard Moore, head of sales at Cirencester Friendly said: “I am delighted with Paul’s appointment to such an important role for the Society. Paul is in extremely knowledgeable member of the sales Team, who is already well known by a large number of our supporting advisers.

“Cirencester Friendly has a reputation for providing excellent service and highly regarded products in the income protection market. Paul’s role will be pivotal in bringing this all together to give advisers the support they need, coupled with our award winning service and products. I have no doubt that Paul’s experience will add value to our business at what promises to be a busy year for Cirencester Friendly, as we continue with our commitment to be great to do business with.”

Shepherd added: “Having been at the Society for over 12 years in a variety of adviser facing roles, I am delighted to be undertaking the new role of key account manager.

“Having seen first-hand within my own family the importance of income protection, I am passionate about getting the message out there about how valuable this type of insurance can be.

“This is a very exciting time for the Society and I look forward to working closely with advisers to help develop their income protection business.”