Personal Finance Society interim chief executive Don MacIntyre has stepped down from his role after more than two years, during which time he faced a challenging time as head of the organisation.

He joined the PFS in August 2022 on a short-term contract to, "assist the professional body in evolving its working practices and governance structures."

He was recruited after an 18-month tenure as interim CEO of UK cyber security professional body the UK Cyber Security Council.

When appointed, he said he would work with the board and an executive search consultancy to secure a permanent CEO in early 2023. That never came to fruition meaning Mr MacIntyre’s time in charge lasted 27 months.

The PFS said that during his tenure, Mr MacIntyre, “played an instrumental role in helping the organisation through significant changes and in positioning the PFS for future growth and success.”

Before he joined the PFS had fallen into conflict with parent body the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). The CII had axed the PFS CEO role, then held by Keith Richards, angering many PFS members. As a result of their complaints the role was reinstated in February 2022 in a u-turn.

In an interview with Financial Planning Today soon after his appointment Mr MacIntyre said he was, “focused on finding the best way forward and the ongoing discussions with the CII about the nature of our relationship is one of my, and the PFS board’s, top priorities.”

He also told FP Today: “Financial Planning has never been as necessary as it is right now, given the current economic and political climate.”

Just over a year ago Mr MacIntyre was forced to refute claims that £10m was missing from the PFS’ funds that had been shifted to the CII.

He told Financial Planning Today: “It is simply incorrect to suggest that any PFS reserves are ‘missing’ or have been ‘spent’ by the CII.”

Mr MacIntyre, a keen American Football coach, said today that the time felt right to take his career in a new direction. 

The PFS Board confirmed that a search for a new PFS chief executive is due to commence, reinforcing its commitment to delivering dedicated leadership for its members.

The PFS chair, Christine Elliott, and president, Carla Brown, thanked Mr MacIntyre for his hard work, loyalty and dedication, in often difficult circumstances.

The PFS said it wanted to reassure all members that the organisation is in good hands. It said: “The executive team remains fully committed to advancing the goals of the PFS and will continue to work closely with the board to ensure a smooth transition and sustained support for the society’s valued members.”