HLPartnership has appointed Laura Havard as its new chief compliance officer, further strengthening the network’s executive leadership team as it continues to expand support for advisers.
Havard brings more than two decades of senior experience across risk, compliance and governance, having held board-level and SMF-approved roles at Loan.co.uk and Reassured Limited, alongside senior positions at JD Williams Financial Services, Ocean Finance and PwC.
At Reassured, the UK’s largest life insurance broker, she served as chief risk and compliance officer, reporting to the chief executive and the chair of the risk and compliance committee.
She led the firm’s compliance and risk functions and oversaw implementation of the FCA’s Consumer Duty, helping to embed a strong governance culture across the business.
Most recently, she was chief operating officer at Loan.co.uk, where she was approved under SMF16 and SMF3 and worked closely with the CEO to deliver robust governance while supporting innovation and operational efficiency.
Christopher Tanner, chief executive officer of HLPartnership, said: “Laura’s appointment is a significant addition to HLPartnership as we continue to grow our network and deliver outstanding support to advisers.
“Her track record across lenders, banks and insurers, combined with her leadership at Reassured and Loan.co.uk, brings a wealth of expertise that will help us maintain the highest governance standards while ensuring strong Consumer Duty outcomes for clients.
“I would also like to thank Kay Leslie, who is leaving HLPartnership after more than four years as chief compliance officer.
“Kay has been instrumental in strengthening our compliance function, supporting advisers and guiding the business through a period of significant growth. We wish her every success for the future.”
Laura Havard said: “I am excited to join HLPartnership at a time of such opportunity and ambition.
“The network has built an excellent reputation not only for the strength of its adviser support and forward-looking innovation, but also for its commitment to delivering good outcomes for consumers.
“I look forward to working with the board, colleagues and members to ensure we continue to uphold the highest standards of compliance, maintain regulatory excellence and provide advisers with the confidence to thrive in a changing market.”
