Scottish Widows has appointed Esther Dijsktra as head of intermediary protection propositions.

She lead the development of Scottish Widow’s proposition for the intermediary protection market, with a planned launch towards the end of 2014.

Dijsktra, who joins Scottish Widows from Legal & General, will be supported by Alun Beynon who has been leading a study into the feasibility of launching Scottish Widows into this market.

Richard Jones, director of annuities, protection and bancassurance at Scottish Widows said: “In 2012 Scottish Widows indicated it was considering entering the intermediary market, and Esther’s appointment is a significant milestone in developing our plans in this regard.

“Our own research shows us that the take-up rate of protection products in the UK remains low, however by working closely with IFAs and providing them with the right products and support they require, we aim to ensure even more families and businesses are adequately protecting themselves.”

Dijsktra added: “The industry is going through some major changes and I’m delighted to be joining Scottish Widows in this new role at such a crucial time.

“The intermediary protection market will remain the significant channel for reaching and serving customers’ protection needs and we are excited at the prospect of launching new products and providing greater choice to the IFA community.”