Wealth management group announces new chief executive

Philip Howell

Rathbone Brothers, the Liverpool wealth management specialist, has announced the appointment of a new chief executive, to replace Philip Howell, who will retire next year.

It said Mr Howell is leaving the group after achieving a successful period of considerable growth.

He intends to retire from the board by the 2019 annual general meeting, on May 9, 2019.

The board said it has appointed Paul Stockton as his successor, subject to regulatory approval.

“Paul has been group finance director of Rathbones for nearly a decade and was appointed managing director of Rathbone Investment Management in May of this year,” the group said.

It added: “Paul has been a key individual in the firm’s success and has played an integral role in the significant growth of the business.”

During the intervening period, Philip and Paul will continue to work closely to ensure there is a smooth transition.

Mark Nicholls, chairman of Rathbones, said: “Under Philip’s leadership, Rathbones has firmly established itself as the leading UK wealth manager and, on behalf of the board, I would like to thank him for the strong direction, unfailing commitment and dedication he has provided to Rathbones during his tenure.

“The board recognises the importance of careful succession planning at Rathbones and, having worked with Paul for many years, we are delighted with his promotion to chief executive officer.

“Paul has built up considerable experience and a deep knowledge of the firm, its values and culture and I wish him every success as he takes on his new responsibilities.”

Chief executive Philip Howell said: “It has been my privilege to lead and work alongside the many talented professionals and dedicated support staff who compose Rathbones.

“I am very grateful for their considerable contribution to our success over the past five years.

“I look forward to working closely with Paul through the transition and I am confident that he will lead the firm to continued success.”

Paul Stockton said: “The opportunity to lead such a prominent and well-respected business is truly exciting.

“Our clients and stakeholders place considerable trust in our ability to deliver them a quality service and reliable investment outcomes.

“I very much look forward to continuing to work with the board, our executive team and my colleagues, to build on our position as a leading UK wealth manager.”

In its most recent trading update last month, Rathbones, which operates from the iconic Port of Liverpool building on the city’s waterfront, announced that it had a total of £47.3bn worth of funds under management.

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