The UK's financial watchdog has made the final post-review appointment to its executive committee.

The Financial Conduct Authority has appointed Georgina Philippou as its new chief operating officer.

Philippou has been acting director for enforcement and market oversight and will step into her new role in November, replacing David Godfrey, who took up the position on an interim basis following the exit of ex-COO Lesley Titcomb. She brings over 20 years’ experience of regulation in the UK.

The senior shuffle follows the departure of Martin Wheatley as chief executive after the government said the regulator needs “different leadership” in July. Tracey McDermott has since taken over as acting chief executive while the FCA searches for a permanent replacement.

“As the demands on the organisation increase, it’s imperative that we prioritise effectively and use our resources in the most efficient manner. Georgina’s extensive experience and wide knowledge of the approaches of international regulators means she is well placed to know what we need to be able to perform and deliver value for money at the level expected by ourselves and by the industry,” said McDermott.

Godfrey will now return to his role of director of finance and operations while Linda Woodall, previously acting director of retail supervision and authorisations, has been appointed director of life insurance and financial advice.

Philippou's appointment means that all executive director positions within the FCA have been filled following the review of strategy, priorities and ways of working late last year. Aside from Philippou and McDermott, the executive committee now comprises director of enforcement and market oversight Mark Steward; director of strategy and competition Christopher Woolard; director of supervision for investment, wholesale and specialists Megan Butler; director of supervision for retail and authorisations Jonathan Davidson; director of risk and compliance oversight Barbara Frohn; and general counsel Sean Martin.

“We now have in place an executive committee with a range of experience from the industry and regulation both here and abroad,” said McDermott. “As we implement our new strategy focused on delivering high quality regulation, the mix of experience and fresh perspectives will be invaluable. I’m looking forward to working with the new team.”