Former ABI senior policy figure George Hodgson has taken up the role, starting this month.

He has previously been STEP’s deputy chief executive and acting as the interim CEO since the departure of David Harvey in June 2016.

STEP’s worldwide Board of Directors said there had been a rigorous recruitment process over the last six months.

Mr Hodgson has been with STEP since 2009.

He has served on the staff of the Treasury Committee of the UK House of Commons.

His move to public policy work followed a 20-year career in investment banking as an economist and investment strategist. He holds economics degrees from the University of Durham and the University of Stirling and has been the author of many articles and research reports on trusts, taxation and investment issues.

Mr Hodgson said: “Around the world the environment STEP members operate in is changing rapidly and STEP must continue to ensure that its educational programmes and other member services equip members to thrive in this changing environment.

“STEP has a very strong team of both highly professional staff and dedicated volunteers and I look forward to working with them to continue to build STEP’s reputation as the leading worldwide professional body for those specialising in advising families across generations.”

Patricia Wass TEP, worldwide chair of STEP, said: “I am delighted that George has been successful in his application to be appointed as the new CEO for the Society.

“George is well known to all STEP members across the world and has extensive knowledge of how the Society operates at all levels. The STEP Board and Council look forward to working with him and congratulate him on his appointment.”