Finance Monthly May 2019 Edition

66 www.finance-monthly.com APPOINTMENTS From Around the World APPOINTMENTS Top 20 Accountancy firm, Menzies LLP has announced two strategic appointments to bolster its thriving transaction services team. Paul Smethurst, a forensic services specialist, has joined the partnership and Alex Duffy has been appointed corporate finance director. Both are based at the firm’s central London office. Paul has a wealth of experience in financial services investigation and litigation and, as well as acting as an expert witness in court proceedings, he regularly advises businesses and individuals in respect of arbitration and other dispute resolution proceedings. In his role as partner, Paul will be responsible for developing the firm’s talent base and strengthening the forensic services team. In particular, he is intending to further promote the firm’s expertise in civil litigation, cross-border and international forensic assignments. Paul Smethurst commented:“Menzies LLP has already developed an outstanding capability and reputation in forensic litigation support and investigation services under the leadership of Gavin Cunningham. I am looking forward to complementing our existing strengths, particularly in the area of civil litigation and international disputes, where I can contribute over 25 years’ worth of expertise.” Alex brings extensive investment banking and corporate finance experience to his new role, where he will remain focused on working in the technology, media and telecommunications (TMT) sector, advising business owners on funding their growth plans, and generating value when they come to exit. With an extensive network of serial investors, venture capitalists and funders, Alex has an excellent track record of successful fundraising within the sector. Alex Duffy commented: “The TMT market space is worth £184 billion in the UK and Menzies is continually showing themselves to be a leading adviser within the sector, in all manner of advisory services – I look forward to bringing my wealth of experience and expertise to the firm and furthering our already enviable reputation.” Menzies LLP Makes Two Strategic Appointments to its Transaction Services Team 6point6 Group Appoints Leading Cybersecurity Director as New MD of Cyber 6point6 Group (6point6), a technology consultancy specialising in digital, emerging technology and cyber, has announced that Michael Aminzade has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Cyber business unit. 6point6 has grown significantly in the last seven years and the Cyber business unit has been a cornerstone of this growth. Michael brings with him over 20 years of experience within the cybersecurity, governance, risk and compliance (GRC) industry and will support the further success of the business unit and delivery of key projects for clients across the public and private sectors. According to a recent Government report, only 16% of board-level executives understand the current climate of cybersecurity threats. Michael will be instrumental in driving a number of upcoming exciting strategic initiatives and services aimed at educating board members on the importance of a robust cyber strategy. David Webb, CEO of 6point6 said: “Michael’s appointment as MD of Cyber is an exciting step forward for the firm. His industry expertise, along with his commitment to working closely with clients to achieve their business goals, will be an invaluable asset as we look to continue our strong growth in cyber.” Michael Aminzade, MD of Cyber at 6point6 said: “It is a very exciting time to join 6point6. As the cyber and regulatory landscapes evolve, we continue to further develop our cyber capabilities and I look forward to building stronger partnerships with our clients.” Michael previously worked as VP Global Compliance and Risk Services at Trustwave as well as CISO Americas/ CISO EMEA at Verifone. Wyelands Bank, set up to help small and medium businesses, has appointed Kevin Sullivan as a relationship manager in its working capital solutions team. Kevin will focus on growing Wyelands Bank’s asset-based lending offering, helping businesses access finance and unlock growth. His appointment is part of the bank’s strategy to help manufacturing and industrial businesses to trade and grow through the right combination of simple financial solutions. Ian Flaxman, managing director, working capital solutions, said: “At Wyelands Bank, our starting point is always to get to know the business we are trying to help and the specific challenges it might face. “With a strong track record in managing a portfolio of asset-based lending clients, Kevin’s appointment demonstrates our commitment to our customers. Kevin will help us continue to deliver innovative and high-quality financial solutions to small and medium businesses across the manufacturing supply chain.” Kevin is responsible for managing a portfolio of clients and developing the team’s risk and relationship management capabilities. He is based in London. Kevin Sullivan said: “Wyelands Bank’s approach is innovative yet simple. It gives its customers direct access to decision makers to help businesses unlock growth. I’m looking forward to working with the team to continue this approach, develop our capabilities and help businesses access finance.” Kevin joins from Nucleus Commercial Finance where he was a client director and focused on building the asset-based lending offer and growth of the business. He has significant portfolio management experience having been responsible for large and complex asset-based lending deals. Kevin previously held senior portfolio and risk management roles at Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance and RBS. Wyelands Bank Strengthens Working Capital Solutions Team