Investment platform giant AJ Bell has announced a major reshuffle to its board of directors.
The Salford-headquartered listed company has promoted chief financial officer Michael Summersgill to the newly-created role of deputy chief executive.
He will take on his new role from October 1, having been CFO since 2011, and will support chief executive Andy Bell with the development and execution of the company's strategy.
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AJ Bell has also confirmed the appointment of Roger Stott to the newly-created role of chief operating officer and will join the board on October 1.
Mr Stott is currently group finance director and has had a broad range of responsibilities in his 13 years at AJ Bell.
As a result of these changes, AJ Bell is currently conducting an external search for a new chief financial officer.
In an update to the London Stock Exchange, the firm also announced that Margaret Hassall has been appointed as a non-executive director and will join the board on September 1.
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Chairman Les Platts said: "These changes will further strengthen the board, both at executive and non-executive level, as the business embarks on the next phase of its long-term growth.
"The changes, together with the planned recruitment of a new chief financial officer, will bring greater experience and diversity to the board.
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"This will benefit all of our stakeholders and enable the Board to continue to maintain effective oversight as the business continues to grow."
Andy Bell added: "Our business is growing quickly and there are exciting opportunities to take advantage of in the investment platform market.
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"It is important that we have the resources and expertise within the business to support this growth and that includes the board.
"I am as enthusiastic as I have ever been about the prospects for the business and I am looking forward to working with Michael, Roger, Margaret and the rest of the team as we embark on our next phase of growth."