St. James’s Place has hired a former Towry and Prudential Chartered Financial Planner as head of business for its academy in Manchester.

Duncan Gregory was Financial Planning director at Prudential, leading the distribution arm.

During his three year tenure, he “oversaw a 50% growth in adviser numbers and a 100% growth in productivity”, his new firm said.

He previously worked at Towry, HSBC, Lloyds, and Skipton building society, holding senior posts across Financial Planning, mortgages and wealth management sectors.

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Mr Gregory said: “The programme at St. James’s Place Academy provides a unique opportunity to build a wealth management business with the backing of St. James’s Place. With over 250 graduates from all walks of life so far, we will work to attract many more motivated candidates that share our values of strong relationships and quality advice.”

Jason Flood, academy director, St. James’s Place, said: “Duncan has joined our already established and highly talented senior management team and he brings a wealth of experience from across the financial services profession. I look forward to working with him to further develop our Academy in Manchester.”

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