Wren Sterling Group’s Executive Chairman Ian Darby has left the Nottingham-based financial planning firm.
Ian has played a pivotal role in the establishment and success of the company over the last nine years, having led its buyout from the Towergate Group in 2015 and then its successful secondary buyout by Lightyear Capital in December 2021.
Since Lightyear’s investment, Ian has helped steer the business to deliver strong performance and client outcomes, enabled by its clear strategic choices and a significant company transformation.
Having recently secured additional facilities to fund the firm’s ongoing M&A programme and with a clear strategy and strong management team in place, Ian’s departure comes at a time when the business is well positioned for its next phase of growth and Ian will remain as a significant shareholder in the business.
Ian’s position as Executive Chairman in Wren Sterling Financial Planning will not be replaced. Clementine Vaughan, a non-executive director of Magnus Financial Discretional Management will (subject to FCA approval) step up to become non-executive Chair of Wren Sterling’s DFM.
Commenting on Ian’s departure, James Twining, Chief Executive of the Wren Sterling Group, said: “Ian’s retirement will mark the end of a remarkable career with Wren Sterling, from its original inception to the business it has become today.
“Under his leadership, Wren Sterling has made critical changes to its strategy, structure and organisation that position it strongly for future success. This work continues, and we thank Ian wholeheartedly for his leadership and contribution to our business.”
Ian Darby said: “I am very proud of what has been achieved at Wren Sterling over the last nine years, in terms of what has been delivered both the shareholders and clients. Having led the business through its secondary buyout and helped embed the new management team and strategy, now is the right time for me to step down.
“I leave the business confident in its strategy, management team and long-term growth prospects.”
