The CISI Liverpool, Chester and North Wales branch has a new president.

Tilney fund manager James Charlton Chartered FCSI takes the role. Having read International Banking & Finance at Liverpool John Moores University, Mr Charlton started his career in 2008 with Tilney (formerly Deutsche Bank) in an operations capacity before progressing into front office in 2009 and becoming a fully qualified retail investment adviser in 2014.

James is currently responsible for the discretionary management of charity, private client, pension and trust investment portfolios and holds the Chartered Wealth Manager title.

Mr Charlton said: “It is a real privilege to have been appointed to this role within the CISI. It is amazing to think that the CISI now comprises over 40,000 members for whom it has become a vital part of their route to qualification and continuing professional development.

“The regional committee work tirelessly to provide quality CPD events for our 600-plus members and to also create opportunities for students as we look to attract and retain the region’s brightest talents. I would also like to congratulate my predecessor Dirk Strontschak’s considerable success in furthering the CISI’s presence within Liverpool, Chester and North Wales during his two year tenure and I look forward to carrying on his excellent work.”

The branch has been successful in fostering links between students at nearby schools studying for CISI qualifications and local financial services employers, providing work experience and apprenticeships. Last year the branch ran a two day Careers in Investment Management Conference for 25 local students, for which Mr Charlton played a key role in his previous position of branch Education Secretary.

Richard Bennett, CISI’s regional director, said: “We are delighted to welcome James as new president and we look forward to supporting him in the promotion of the branch’s professional development and membership programme.”

The branch’s recent annual dinner, held at the Titanic Hotel, Liverpool, was attended by 200 guests who contributed £2,842.50 towards the Alder Hey Children’s Charity. The CISI Liverpool, Chester and North Wales branch has over 600 members and the branch committee is responsible for contributing to a lively annual programme of continuing professional development events.

The branch’s next event will be on Monday 20 June on the legal and financial challenges if Britain votes to leave the EU. This will be led by Ben Seager-Scott, PhD, CFA, Director Investment Strategy, Tilney BestInvest.