Bickerstaff brings a host of experience to the table, including a partnership role at PwC, board appointments at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and The Global Links Initiative, and close work with various FTSE 100 firms such as Barclays and Legal and General.

She has also worked with the Ministry of Defence and other government departments.

As well as being a board member at Hodge, Bickerstaff will join the firm’s audit, risk and remuneration committees.

Hodge chair Graeme Hughes says: “We are really thrilled to be welcoming Penny to Hodge and are looking forward to sharing in the knowledge and experience she has built up within the financial services industry to date, and as the business continues to develop.

“The insight she brings to the organisation will play a key role in broadening the perspective of the board further, as we continue to navigate the current climate and the years beyond.”