The asset management arm of London-listed Close Brothers has boosted its financial advice capabilities in the North West.

The UK’s Close Brothers Asset Management has hired Paul Chester as Manchester practice director, a newly-created role. 

Previously, Chester led the launch of Arbuthnot Latham Private Bank's Northern-based office. He was also a partnership development manager for St James’s Place. Within his 13 years of industry experience, he has served high net worth individuals and generated new business opportunities via professional intermediaries.

“We have been focusing on growing our presence in the North West and Paul’s wealth of contacts and deep industry knowledge will be key in enhancing our position in this region,” said Clive Kingsbury, regional director at CBAM. 

The hire follows swiftly from that of Daniel Constable as business development director. He is responsible for driving relationships with intermediaries across London and East Anglia. Last week, Debbie Long joined the firm as a financial advisor in Northwich, Cheshire.

In 2015, CBAM generated a pre-tax operating profit of £108.7 million ($156.3 million), up from £106.2 million a year prior. Total client assets fell to £9.1 billion.