Investment firm Tilney has continued its major recruitment drive with the appointment of a new business development director.

Jim Clay joins the company from discretionary fund manager Heartwood, where he was responsible for developing and supporting relationships with Financial Planning firms in the North of England.

He has also held positions with Pershing, CoFunds and SEI Investments previously as well.

As part of his new role, Mr Clay will cover the North East and Yorkshire and will operate from Tilney’s Newcastle and Leeds offices.

Mr Clay will work with Financial Planning and advice firms to support Tilney for Professionals. He will also work with solicitors, accountants, the trustee community, other professionals and investment consultants as well.

Tilney employs over 1000 staff across its 30 regional offices, with the firm looking after assets worth over £22 billion.

Craig Wright, head of business development at Tilney for Professionals, said: “Jim has a record of building and maintaining great relationships with clients and professional connections. In a business where the strength of these relationships is at the heart of everything we do, this is a vital quality and I am delighted to welcome Jim into our fold.

“As we look to continue our expansion due to the increasing demand for Tilney’s investment services to the professional and adviser community, we will be looking for other candidates of his calibre.”