As part of its growth plans, MetLife Europe has bolstered its management team with the appointment of Andy Marks to the newly-created post of business development director.

In his new role Mr Marks will be responsible for driving new business opportunities with MetLife’s existing IFA network and developing new sales channels which the firm believes will emerge in the run-up to the Retail Distribution Review’s implementation. He will report to Dominic Grinstead, MetLife’s UK managing director.

Mr Marks was formerly managing director, sales at The Hartford, having joined the firm in 2007. The US insurance and financial services group announced that it would close to new business in the UK in May this year.