Fitzpatricks names new CFO & COO

Fitzpatricks Group has appointed Jodie Blackledge as the firm's new chief financial officer and chief operating officer.

In this role, Blackledge will focus on the business growth of the firm via acquisitions.

In announcing her appointment, Fitzpatricks' chief executive, John McMurdo, said: "I am delighted that Jodie has joined our group and I know her significant experience in mergers and acquisitions will be of great benefit to our group. As a firm we continue to find and execute on a range of excellent acquisitions and growth opportunities."

He added: "Jodie has had an outstanding career in finance, M&A, investment banking, strategy and governance, with substantial groups including Bank of America, Merrill Lynch and Citigroup."

Prior to joining Fitzpatrick's Group, Blackledge was the CFO of ASX-listed AUB Group and, before that, the CFO of The Trust Company.

Her appointment follows Fitzpatricks Group's March 2018 appointments of Marnie Page, as head of adviser experience; Amanda Wilson, as head of advice and licensee compliance; and Colin Lewis as head of technical services.