Asset manager Abrdn has appointed finance chief Jason Windsor as its new permanent chief executive following Stephen Bird’s abrupt resignation in May.
Windsor, who had already taken over as CEO on an interim basis, will receive a base salary of £800,000 per year. Bird’s annual salary for 2023 was £875,000.
While Abrdn’s search process to fill the permanent role considered both internal and external candidates, Windsor was considered the favourite for the job.
He joined Abrdn in October 2023 from housebuilder Persimmon, where he was also CFO. Before that, he spent 12 years at insurance giant Aviva, serving as CFO for three years.
While Abrdn’s search process to fill the permanent role considered both internal and external candidates, Windsor was considered the favourite for the job.
Bird’s decision to step down in May surprised the City. His four-year tenure was marked by deep outflows of client cash at the FTSE 250 money manager and a much-mocked rebranding following its demerger with the old Standard Life insurance business.
Ian Jenkins is due to continue as Abrdn’s interim CFO. A search process for a permanent appointment will now commence.
Windsor said on Tuesday: “I am honoured to have been chosen to lead Abrdn. I see significant headroom in each of our three core businesses, with the potential to generate a step-change in performance for our clients and customers, and for our shareholders.
“My job now is to work with the talented team at Abrdn to realise this opportunity and to build a more efficient, growing business with a culture that sustains long-term success.”
Douglas Flint, Abrdn’s chair, commented: “I am delighted that Jason emerged from what was a very thorough process as the unanimous choice of the board to lead Abrdn in its next phase.
“He has made a huge impression both internally and externally since he joined Abrdn, particularly as someone whose actions evidence he cares deeply about our clients and customers and our people.”