Aviva alumnus Jason Windsor (pictured), who has been serving as Abrdn Plc’s interim group chief executive, has been named the company’s permanent CEO, pending regulatory approval.
Previously the group’s chief financial officer, Windsor will take on the top post following an internal and external recruitment process, which began earlier this year as Abrdn sought fresh leadership in line with repositioning itself as a specialist asset manager with a strong digital focus on wealth management.
“I am delighted that Jason emerged from what was a very thorough process as the unanimous choice of the board to lead Abrdn in its next phase,” chair Sir Douglas Flint commented.
“He has made a huge impression both internally and externally since he joined Abrdn, particularly as someone whose actions evidence he cares deeply about our clients and customers and our people. I very much look forward to working with him as our new CEO.”
Windsor brings substantial experience to the chief executive position. He joined Abrdn in October 2023 as group CFO, having previously served in the same capacity at Persimmon Plc.
Before that, Windsor held multiple senior roles at Aviva, including group chief financial officer and CFO of its UK insurance businesses. His background also includes a 15-year tenure at Morgan Stanley.
Windsor, whose annual salary has been set at £800,000, had this to say about his transition: “I am honoured to have been chosen to lead Abrdn. I see significant headroom in each of our three core businesses, with the potential to generate a step-change in performance for our clients and customers, and for our shareholders.
“My job now is to work with the talented team at Abrdn to realise this opportunity and to build a more efficient, growing business with a culture that sustains long-term success.”
Ian Jenkins, meanwhile, will continue as Abrdn’s interim chief financial officer while the firm launches a search for a permanent replacement.
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