Specialist executive search firm Audeliss partnered with the Financial Ombudsman Service for the search of a new Chair in Spring 2019 and after receiving Prime ministerial  approval, the Financial Conduct Authority announced the appointment of Baroness Zahida Manzoor very recently.

As the destination for diverse talent, Audeliss are the leading partner for executive and non-executive search. Audeliss work with FTSE companies and public sector organisations. The delivery of the new Chair to the board at the Financial Ombudsman Service is one of a number of exclusive appointments being managed by Audeliss at the moment.

Charles Randell, Chair of the FCA, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Zahida and I look forward to working with her. The Ombudsman Service fulfils an essential role in delivering a fair system for resolving disputes between consumers or small businesses and financial firms. Zahida brings extensive experience of public service, governance and dispute resolution to the role.”

Commenting on the appointment, Baroness Manzoor said:

“It’s a daunting endeavour to enter any competition when you know the competition is going to be fierce due to many outstanding candidates and where the winner takes all. Having entered the open competition for the role of Chair for the Financial Ombudsman Service, I was delighted not only by the professional service given by Audeliss throughout the process but also by the personal commitment given by their Chief Executive, Suki Sandhu and his team, who ensured the navigation through a very thorough, fair and transparent process was met with clarity, support and good humour – making the process both enjoyable and a pleasure”.

“My appointment to the role of chair of the Financial Ombudsman Service follows a career dedicated to public service and ensuring fair treatment in people’s everyday lives. I very much see that continuing with the ombudsman service.  I wish Sir Nicholas Montagu well as he hands me the baton and I look forward to working with Caroline Wayman and ombudsman service colleagues, who I know are committed to providing a modern and first rate service to all. It’s vital too that we maintain effective and constructive relationships with all key stakeholders to ensure we all work together in the best interest of all users of the service.”

As the focus on diversity and inclusion remains a critical consideration for operations within both the private and the public sector,  Founder & CEO of Audeliss Suki Sandhu OBE commented “We are delighted to have appointed the best candidate to the board who happens to be a female, ethnic minority candidate.  We have no doubt she will be successful in helping move the organisation forward with Caroline as well as being a beacon and role model for diversity.”

“Audeliss have a long-standing relationship with the organisation and we’re extremely pleased with the outcome of the search.  Zahida is a great fit for the service and we are delighted to have helped facilitate her appointment.”