Sesame Bankhall Group (SBG) chair John Cowan has been named as the firm’s new interim chief executive.

He replaces interim chief executive Ross Liston, who took on the role in July 2022. He has moved on to another job in the industry, yet to be detailed.

Alongside performing routine chief executive functions, Cowan will head up the firm’s search for a new chief executive, the appointment of which will see Cowan revert to a full-time role as chair.

Cowan worked as executive chair of SBG in 2014 and has been chair since 2020.

As a result of this continuity, the firm says it is “very much business as usual”.

Cowan says: “While I’m taking on a slightly different role temporarily, advisers will see no change. We will still provide the top-class service that everyone expects from us and will continue to champion the cause for the financial advice industry.”

He continues: “Whoever takes over the permanent CEO role will be taking the reins of a company that is financially strong, forward-thinking, ambitious and a leading voice in our sector.

“We are only after the best and therefore we are prepared to take our time to ensure that we get the right person for the job.”

And outgoing interim chief executive Liston comments: “I have had a wonderful time at SBG over the last four years and worked with some of the most talented people in the industry.

“The business has gone from strength to strength in the time I have been here and is in great shape for the future.

“There has never been a greater need for advice and the prospects for our industry look bright.”