Jason Windsor has been confirmed as group chief executive of Edinburgh-based investment company abrdn.

Mr Windsor, who was hired as chief financial officer last year, has been operating in an interim role since May and will receive a basic salary of £800,000, with bonuses and share allocations taking his total remuneration well into seven figures. He takes up the role immediately.

The board today said it had considered a number of candidates for the role, both internal and external.

He joined Abrdn last October from housebuilder Persimmon where he was CFO. He spent more than a decade within the Aviva Group, latterly as group CFO, following a 15-year career at Morgan Stanley in London and Singapore, where he was most latterly managing director within its investment banking division advising financial sector clients.

He is a governor of Felsted School in Essex, suggesting his main residence will continue to be in south east England.

Mr Windsor succeeds Stephen Bird who left the company in May by mutual agreement. His exit followe a turbulent period since the former Citigroup executive took over four years ago. It was controversially rebranded, shifted focus and saw a steep fall in value that saw it move in and out of the FTSE 100.

The company relocated to its historic premises in George Street after just six years in a purpose-built building in nearby St Andrew Square.

Sir Douglas Flint, chairman, said: “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.  I very much look forward to working with him as our new CEO.”

Mr Windsor, said: “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.”

Ian Jenkins will continue in the role of interim group chief financial officer.  A search process for a permanent appointment has begun.

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