Warrington-based DSW Capital, the mid-market “challenger” professional services licence network and owner of the Dow Schofield Watts corporate finance brand, announced the appointment of Peter Fendall to the board as chief operating officer.

Fendall, 32, will also be appointed to the role of interim CFO on May 17, 2024, when Nicole Burstow, deputy CEO and CFO, leaves the business.

DSW Capital shares are down more than 50% since its IPO in December, 2021.

“Pete joined DSW Capital in September 2021 to help facilitate the IPO and is currently the Business Development & Operations Director and Company Secretary,” said DSW Capital.

“He has led several initiatives to enhance the group’s unique licensee platform model and actively engages with licensees to help them identify ways in which DSW can add value and support their growth ambitions.

“His most recent projects include the development of the group’s ESG strategy and recruiting new teams and individuals into the DSW Network.

“Pete will continue to oversee IT, Recruitment, Facilities Management, Compliance and People Development in his new role as COO, whilst also supporting on Marketing, Investor Relations and stakeholder engagement …

“Pete qualified as a chartered accountant at Deloitte in 2017, and spent eight years at Deloitte in their NW audit team, working on large and complex audit engagements.

“He was also an active member of the Deloitte NW Assurance team, delivering Accounting Advisory and Reporting Accountant projects.”

Dow Schofield Watts CEO James Dow said: “Pete has been a key member of the senior management team since IPO, working closely with the directors to grow and expand the DSW Network.

“I am delighted to formally welcome him to the board, as COO. He has already demonstrated the significant people and operational skills needed to fulfil this role and I am confident he will add even more value in his new areas of responsibility.

“I am also delighted to announce his future appointment as interim CFO, having been heavily involved in the finance function since he joined.

“By stepping into this role, Pete will ensure stability and consistency in the finance team, while we conclude a board structure review and the recruitment process to find Nicole’s replacement.”