A new PFS and CII public affairs director was unveiled this morning.

Dr Matthew Connell, who had been head of regulatory developments and policy at Zurich, takes the newly created role of director of policy and engagement. This involves covering the operations of both the CII and Personal Finance Society, managing the development of policy, public affairs and public relations strategy.

Dr Connell was previously chairman of the Investment and Life Insurance Group.

Keith Richards, PFS chief executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Matthew to our team. Matthew has a strong reputation in the regulatory world and brings a wealth of policy and public affairs expertise, which will be key to building public trust in the power of professional standards in the insurance and financial advice sectors.”

“I look forward to working with Matthew on providing insightful content, which will help our members engage with their clients, and position the CII and PFS as a thought leader in the insurance and financial advice professions.”

Dr Connell said: “I am excited about joining the CII and PFS at a time of increasing regulatory development.”

“New technology, demographic change and higher expectations from consumers are all demanding new standards of professional and ethical behaviour from the financial services sector. I’m looking forward to working with insurance and financial advice professionals and policymakers to find practical ways to maintain and increase trust in the sectors.”

The CII has also appointed former Nucleus Financial content editor Jun Merrett as content and engagement manager.