Huddersfield-based Fintel plc, a provider of technology, compliance and regulatory services to financial advisers and institutions, announced the appointment of Tom Hegarty as the new CEO of its Simplybiz business.

“Prior to joining Simplybiz, Mr Hegarty served as Managing Director of M&G Wealth Advice, where he played a pivotal role in the creation and development of The Advice Partnership,” said Fintel. “He established the M&G Wealth Advice Academy in 2021, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing new talent within the sector and increasing accessibility of advice for consumers.

“Mr Hegarty’s career also includes his role as Managing Director of the New Model Business Academy, a not-for-profit subsidiary of Fintel (previously the SimplyBiz Group), where he developed one the of the first apprenticeship programmes in financial advice. Tom therefore returns to Fintel with a strong level of familiarity and understanding of the wider business.

“In addition to his professional roles, Mr Hegarty has been actively involved in various sector initiatives. He currently chairs the New Talent Alliance, an organisation dedicated to attracting and developing new talent within the financial advice profession, and he also chairs the Trailblazer Group within the financial advice sector for apprenticeships.”

Fintel CEO Matt Timmins said: “Tom’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal person to lead Simplybiz. I believe that Tom will work with the team to build enhancements to our compliance and regulatory services whilst focusing the business on the technology opportunities of the future. Across Fintel, we have invested in a wealth of solutions which make us the number one provider of technology to the UK intermediary market, and I’m confident Tom’s work with the team across the group will significantly enhance their delivery.”