DFM Quilter Cheviot has appointed Simon Funge, former MD of Worldwide Financial Planning, as its new head of office in Manchester as it renews its growth strategy in the region.

Mr Funge will take over the role from David Rothburn who has lead Quilter Cheviot's Manchester team for 17 years.

Mr Rothburn will remain with the business to concentrate on his client base, some of whom have been with the investment manager since Mr Rothburn joined the business as a founder member of the office in 1993.

The Manchester office is the DFM’s base for the north west region. Mr Funge will lead a team of six investment managers who work with Financial Planners in the city and across the region.

Andrew McGlone, chief executive of Quilter Cheviot, said: “Our Manchester office has experienced great success since its opening, with our local client base growing significantly over the last 27 years.

“The financial adviser community in the North West has been integral to this success and, as we look to build further upon on our presence in the region, Simon’s experience means that he is ideally placed to strengthen our relationships within this community.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank David for leading and growing the team in recent years and for his ongoing commitment to Quilter Cheviot. I’m delighted that he will remain with the business and continue to look after his clients.”

Mr Funge said: “It is an honour to be asked to lead Quilter Cheviot’s Manchester office through this next phase of growth. I am delighted to be back in the North West where for 25 years, I worked amongst the region’s business community. I very much look forward to building upon the firm’s robust relationships in the adviser space, in an area I know well.”