Thompson steps down after almost four years in the role having initially joined Quilter in 2012 when the firm took over his own financial planning business – Blueprint.

Gazard had been group managing director of Quilter’s advice business having joined the firm in 2017. Prior to that he was managing director of Sesame Bankhall for four years.

He has experience from being a financial adviser with Prudential and spent eight years with a national IFA.

Gazard said: “It is an honour to be asked to lead Quilter Financial Planning through its next phase.

“We have huge potential to make trusted financial advice more accessible to ensure the best possible outcomes for customers.”

Gazard’s promotion is subject to regulatory approval.