Friends welcomes new chief

9:46am Thursday 7th August 2008

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PENSIONS and life assurance provider Friends Provident, which employs more than 900 people in Salisbury, has welcomed Trevor Matthews to the company as chief executive officer.

It has also appointed Charles Bellringer to the board as interim chief financial officer.

Mr Bellringer has more than 30 years' experience in finance including senior roles at Legal & General and Equitable Life.

He joined Equitable in May 2001 and led the financial reconstruction project.

He is expected to be at Friends Provident until a permanent CFO is appointed.

Sir Adrian Montague, chairman of Friends Provident, said: "I am delighted to welcome Trevor and Charles to Friends Provident.

"Trevor has an outstanding track record and global experience which make him the ideal leader for Friends Provident and we look forward to working with him to drive the company forward and ensure the company achieves the aims set out in its strategic review.

"We look forward to working with Charles until a permanent CFO is appointed."

Mr Matthews said: "The current environment is challenging across all markets, but I believe Friends Provident is well placed to compete and grow in our chosen areas."

Mr Matthews replaces Ben Gunn, who is retiring.

• Friends Provident will be presenting its half-year results today.