UK-based Sesame Bankhall Group has appointed James Stevenson as head of advisor technology.

In his new role he will be responsible for developing strategy for technology initiatives, including designing and implementing the new client and practice management system, taking place with technology provider Iress. His team will work alongside Iress to give advisors a range of features including client portal and Smartphone support.

Stevenson previously worked at wealth manager Avelo as head of financial planning and wealth management. He was responsible for delivering technology solutions to companies such as Aviva, RBS and Nationwide. Prior to that, he worked at Focus Business Solutions as head of software delivery.

“The solution from IRESS will be a real differentiator and brings to the UK a unique blend of breadth and depth of functionality across front, middle and back office,” said Stevenson.

“The system will give advisor firms the ability to automate many repetitive activities, ensuring consistency of advice service and lower operational costs. It is investments like this that will help our members build efficient and profitable advice businesses in a post-RDR world."