Abrdn’s former chief financial officer and current interim group CEO, Jason Windsor (pictured), has been appointed the firm’s official group CEO.
The announcement comes three and-a-half months after former CEO Stephen Bird stepped down, amid abrdn’s “strategic repositioning” towards becoming a specialist asset manager.
According to the firm, an external search for a permanent group CEO took place alongside a formal succession process. After reviewing a number of internal and external candidates for the group CEO position, Windsor was awarded the role.
Prior to joining abrdn in 2023, Windsor was CFO at Persimmon Homes. He also spent 12 years working at Aviva, latterly as the group’s CFO, as well as 15 years at Morgan Stanley where he served as managing director.
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Sir Douglas Flint, chair of abrdn, 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.”
Windsor added: “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 remain abrdn’s interim group CFO, while a search commences for a permanent appointment for the role.
Windsor’s remuneration package for his new permanent role was approved by abrdn shareholders at the company’s AGM last year, and sees him earn an annual salary of £800,000.
