Scottish Widows appoints Gary Burchett as protection director

Gary started his career at British Airways before moving to Legal & General, where his roles included MD of housing, strategy director and international development director.

He then established his own financial services consultancy business and has undertaken several consultancy positions, including head of intermediary Protection with Lloyds Banking Group.

The protection director role was previously held by Jackie Leiper, who moved to the role of distribution director in January 2018.

Craig Thornton, general insurance and protection director at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Gary to the team. His invaluable knowledge and expertise will be central to helping us strengthen and grow our presence in the protection market across the whole Group, and in helping to bridge the UK’s protection gap. Our commitment to helping people at the most difficult and challenging times of their lives continues to drive everything we do.”

Gary Burchett added: “I’m delighted to be joining at such an exciting and interesting time for the Group. The protection business is vital in supporting and strengthening our relationships with customers and intermediaries, and I look forward to working with all my new colleagues to grow this important part of the business.”