A new chief executive officer has been appointed by the Equity Release Council.
Jim Boyd is set to bring to the role an array of experience from across the retirement landscape, having launched Just Retirement in 2014.
Prior to that, Jim worked as an expert adviser to the Department of Work and Pensions, as well as deputy director and head of research at think tank Reform. Here, he focused on pensions, retirement and long-term care funding.
Boyd oversaw all external policy and media issues during his career at Partnership Assurance Group. He also helped to shape government policy discussions in areas such as the secondary annuities market and the 2014 Care Act.
In his new role, he will work with both David Burrowes and Donna Bathgate to help the Equity Release Council look at new opportunities and expand awareness of the advice and products available.
Commenting on the appointment was chairman of the Equity Release Council, David Burrowes. He said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jim Boyd to the new role of CEO. Housing wealth is realising its potential to play a vital role in broader retirement planning conversations. As these debates continue, Jim’s experience in the strategic development of organisations and policy initiatives will be instrumental in The Council’s development as the sector’s authoritative voice.
“Jim will play a central role in building the next chapter of the equity release sector’s growth, engaging with industry and government about practical solutions to support the UK’s ageing population.”
Jim stated: “The Council has done fantastic work in facilitating the growth of a safe equity release market that gives more consumers access to a financial solution in later life. As the market goes from strength to strength, it’s a very exciting time to be joining The Council. I’m looking forward to representing the equity release sector and its customers as we face up to wide-ranging societal challenges, from intergenerational wealth inequalities to social care needs.”
