Sesame Bankhall Group (SBG) has appointed Richard Harrison as chief executive officer, subject to FCA approval.

Bringing more than 20 years’ financial services leadership experience, Harrison will join SBG from Wesleyan Assurance Society, where he is currently chief distribution officer and has responsibility for financial advice, general insurance, and distribution across its five businesses. He also leads the delivery of marketing and digital activity for the Society.

Prior to Wesleyan, Harrison was head of network and premier at HSBC UK, where he was responsible for more than 7,000 people and 520 branches.

Harrison joins SBG on 2 January 2024, at which point current Interim chief executive officer John Cowan will resume his role as chair of the SBG Board.

Cowan said: “Sesame Bankhall Group exists to support advisers in building quality businesses that deliver the best outcomes for their clients. Our focus has been on finding a dynamic, driven, and ambitious CEO who will lead the Group for the long-term benefit of the adviser community we support.

“Richard has a great track record of helping businesses to evolve and grow, through clear strategies and successful partnerships – with employees, advisers, and customers always at the very heart of propositions. With a breadth of experience across all areas of financial services, it’s clear that he is the ideal person to help drive and deliver our future plans and established business strategy, alongside our experienced management team.

“Richard enthusiastically shares our purpose and future vision. I very much look forward to working closely with him as together we help SBG and its members to thrive and grow.”

Harrison added: “Having started out working for an IFA, I’ve learned first-hand the value of quality financial advice and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives. Through its three market-leading brands, SBG is a strong business with a fantastic team in place that’s been at the forefront of adviser support for many years.

“I share their drive and ambition to deliver customer-focused growth for advisers and the business. I am relishing the opportunity to work with the team to help shape and deliver its next phase of development.”