Barker joins The Openwork Partnership with a 30-year career, having held senior leadership roles in the insurance, wealth management and protection sectors.

Most recently, he served of head of insurance, wealth and asset Management EMEA for Alvarez & Marsal.

Prior to this, he spent 10 years at Aviva including assignments as chief executive officer of wealth, chair of Aviva Health and chief executive officer of Protection & Health.

Barker will take up his position in September, with interim chief executive Philip Howell resuming his role as executive chairman.

Duncan Crocker, who stepped into the chair through completion of the Bain Capital transaction, will also now return to his position as senior independent director.

Howell says: “2025 is proving to be a momentous year for The Openwork Partnership as we embark on an exciting chapter with the support of Bain Capital.”

“The group is now primed for growth on all fronts with a particular focus on increasing adviser headcount, introducing new technology solutions and facilitating partner succession.”

“These form the bedrock of our strategy to support more advisers in providing lifetime advice to more clients, and Rob’s track record in leading distribution, driving operational efficiency and leveraging innovative technology set him apart as the CEO of choice for us.”

Commenting on his appointment Barker adds: “I feel privileged to be taking the helm of The Openwork Partnership at a time when it holds so much opportunity.”

“The business has a rich history built over decades by its dedicated partners and is defined by its commitment to clients. I am excited by the prospect of working with my new colleagues, our partners and Bain Capital to achieve our full potential.”