Willis will work alongside investment research manager Justine Fearns in the firm’s Bath office.
The discretionary service is expected to be launched on 4 June.
Willis was previously lead manager on several Whitechurch discretionary portfolios with joint responsibility for running around £400m.
Willis said: “I know that I have the skill set, experience and expertise to make it a success.”
He added: “It has been relatively straightforward to make gains over the past decade, as most assets have risen in value. However, it is likely that we face more challenging times ahead.”
Chase de Vere chief executive Stephen Kavanagh said: “With the launch of this new service, we will be able to manage our clients’ investments and pensions on either an advisory or discretionary basis, whichever suits their needs best. This is a big step forwards as we aim to provide the best overall service for our clients and to be recognised as the leading firm of independent financial advisers in the UK.”
