By RAY GREENSHIELDS 30/11/2007
Ray has had a long career with the Australian financial services company, AMP, culminating in the position of MD with responsibility for its Australian and New Zealand business. Most recently, Ray was Managing Director of Barclays Wealth, a position he held until 2006. Prior to this, Ray was Chief Executive of Zurich Financial Services' Life Businesses in the UK.
Bestinvest, founded in 1986, is one of the country’s most successful financial advisory companies and currently looks after client assets exceeding £3.7 billion. The company was the subject of a management buyout in September this year backed by 3i, the global private equity and venture capital company.
Commenting on the appointment, Peter Gordon, Partner 3i Buyouts said “We believe that Bestinvest has one of the most attractive value offerings in UK wealth management today. There is an exciting market opportunity for the company and we are confident that Ray’s experience and knowledge will be of great benefit to the business.”
Managing Director, Andrew Barnes, added. “We are delighted to have secured the services of a Chairman with Ray’s experience. There is a huge market opportunity for Bestinvest and we look forward to working with Ray to ensure that the company continues to be a success story in UK financial services.”
Ray Greenshields commented: “I am very excited by the opportunity to work with the Board and management to build on this low cost investment and financial advisory business platform. We have a great customer proposition, great technology and great people in Bestinvest to deliver its potential.”
'Bestinvest's current Chairman, Peter Howland, who has overseen the success of the company in recent years, is reducing his time commitment but remains on the Board as Deputy Chairman. He will concentrate his efforts in the area of client relationships.'