The Openwork Partnership has appointed Rob Barker as chief executive officer.
Over a 30-year career, Barker (pictured) has held senior leadership roles in the insurance, wealth management and protection sectors. He was most recently head of insurance, wealth and asset management EMEA for Alvarez & Marsal.
Before this, he spent 10 years at Aviva including assignments as CEO of wealth, chairman of Aviva Health and CEO of protection and health.
Barker will take up his position in September, with interim CEO Philip Howell resuming his role as executive chairman.
Duncan Crocker, who stepped into the chairman role through completion of the Bain Capital transaction, will also now return to his position as senior independent director.
Howell said: “2025 is proving to be a momentous year for The Openwork Partnership as we embark on an exciting chapter with the support of Bain Capital.
“The group is now primed for growth on all fronts with a particular focus on increasing adviser headcount, introducing new technology solutions and facilitating partner succession.
“These form the bedrock of our strategy to support more advisers in providing lifetime advice to more clients, and Rob’s track record in leading distribution, driving operational efficiency and leveraging innovative technology set him apart as the CEO of choice for us.”
Barker added: “I feel privileged to be taking the helm of The Openwork Partnership at a time when it holds so much opportunity.
“The business has a rich history built over decades by its dedicated partners and is defined by its commitment to clients.
“I am excited by the prospect of working with my new colleagues, our partners and Bain Capital to achieve our full potential.”