Bellpenny’s acting head of Financial Planning has left to join a national firm of financial advisers.

Karen Wright has joined Foster Denovo as head of business development.

She has previously built and sold her own IFA practice with seven advisers.

Ms Wright brings more than 25 years' experience, with her most recent role being acting head of financial planning at Bellpenny.

In her new role, she will be responsible for managing some private client partners and all strategic partnerships.

She said: "I am delighted to be joining such a well respected business during this exciting time in its development. Foster Denovo's breadth and depth is impressive, making it the perfect offering for potential companies seeking strategic relationships."

The company has also hired Paul Mattock, whose last role was as head of recruitment for Openwork. He has previously held regional director positions at Natwest and Nationwide, and was head of card operations at RBS. He is level four qualified and moved into recruiting in 2014.

He said: "Foster Denovo's model means that advisers work as a team, albeit individually - a model I am hugely impressed by. It gives them the opportunity to extend their own knowledge and ability, and to create new business.

"I have a passion for the industry, and the need for a customer-centric approach. I believe my varied industry contacts and diverse skills will bring real value to the firm.”

Roger Brosch, Foster Denovo CEO, said: "I am delighted to welcome both Karen and Paul to the company, and believe that their combined industry knowledge and experience will be invaluable. We're entering an exciting phase in our development, and it is great to have them both on board."