People: Arc Pensions Law; Shorts; and more

National specialist pensions law firm, Arc Pensions Law, has confirmed the promotion of Robert Walker to partner.

He joined Arc in 2017 as a senior associate and is based at the firm’s Leeds office.

Walker advises employers and trustees on all aspects of pensions law, including in relation to compliance and governance, liability management and corporate activity. He also has significant experience providing professional independent trustee services.

He has particular expertise in advising on the pensions aspects of bulk purchase annuity contracts, including the partial buy-in of pensioner liabilities and transactions on an ‘all risks’ basis.

His promotion follows the recent appointments of Alex Rodger as a partner, Charlotte Clewes-Boyne as an associate in Leeds and Sally MacCormick as an associate in London, as the firm continues its nationwide growth and the expansion of its pensions law capabilities.

Walker said: “I am excited to join the partnership at Arc: the firm’s commitment to the pensions industry and the development of talent is second to none and I am grateful for the excellent support of colleagues and clients over the last several years.”

Leeds partner Kate Payne said: “I have worked with Robert since before the Arc’s Leeds office was established. He is an excellent colleague and we are all looking forward to seeing him further strengthen his practice in his new role as partner.”

Managing partner, Rosalind Connor, added: “Robert is a welcome addition to our partnership and his promotion from senior associate to partner will further consolidate our nationwide pensions offering.”

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Accountant Andrew Heelin has retired after a career spanning 48 years working at the Chesterfield offices of accountancy firm, Shorts.

He joined Shorts straight from school in 1974 and his continued loyalty to the firm was rewarded in 2012 with his promotion to the position of accounts director.

Heelin said: “I never thought I would retire. I always wanted to be a workaholic, and I think I can probably now say that I succeeded in that ambition.

“But time moves on, circumstances change, and -maybe reluctantly – I think that now is the right time.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Shorts. I don’t know where the last 48 years have gone. It’s been a pleasure to witness the firm’s growth over that time and I take with me great memories of working with some lovely people.

“I will watch Shorts’ continued development with interest – even if it is from afar.”

Managing partner, Andy Irvine, added: “All of us at Shorts wish Andrew a very long and happy retirement and thank him for the years of dedication and service he has given to the firm and our clients.

“Andrew has seen many changes during his time at Shorts, one of which being the growth experienced by the firm over that time. He has played a significant role in the ‘Shorts story’ and we wish him all the very best as he begins this new chapter.”

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Skipton Building Society has appointed Ian Cornelius as interim group chief executive from 26 April.

Currently the society’s commercial and strategy director, he will move into the role following January’s announcement that current Group CEO, David Cutter, will leave the society after almost 30 years on 25 April.

Robert East, Skipton Building Society chair, said: “I am pleased Ian Cornelius, Skipton’s commercial and strategy director, will take over as interim group chief executive.

“Ian has over 20 years’ experience in financial services and has been on the Skipton Board for 10 years, working closely alongside our outgoing CEO, David Cutter.

“Working with specialist external recruiters, the process to find David’s successor is progressing well. In the meantime, I welcome Ian as he steps into the helm to further build upon our Group strength and deliver outstanding service for our customers and colleagues.”

Cornelius said: “Serving our colleagues and customers for the past 10 years has been one of the highlights of my professional career. I’m very pleased to continue this work in the capacity of interim group chief executive.

 “The society is the heartbeat of a dynamic and high performing group of businesses, something we owe a great deal of gratitude to David Cutter for his dedicated service and contribution.

“My challenge is to further build on his excellent stewardship and to ensure the society continues on its successful path ready for its next chapter.”