Mason Stevens MD, co-CIO departs

Mason Stevens managing director and co-CIO Thomas Bignill has left the organisation after nearly 11 years.

A spokesperson for the organisation confirmed his departure to Industry Moves, saying that Bignill will remain a shareholder but has left to pursue other opportunities.

Bignill was named managing director in early 2010 following a long career in investment advice. He was previously a non-executive director for Personal Choice Portfolios. He was the head of direct clients and equity market services at Next Financial Limited and a client advisory with Bell Potter Securities. He also held roles with Merrill Lynch and BT.

Commenting on Bignill's departure, Mason Stevens CEO and CIO Vincent Hua said, "Tom has not only been integral to the success and development of Mason Stevens, but also the wealth management industry having spearheaded the managed accounts segment which has seen significant evolution in recent years and remains at the core of our business.

"We wish him well and especially appreciate his dedication, enthusiasm, and contribution to the success of Mason Stevens."

Hua will resume the position of sole CIO.

In comments to Financial Standard, Bignell said, "After 11 years I thought it was time to figure out my next journey, but I am very proud of what we have built over the last 10 years.

"It is a really unique business with great people and great clients. The business is in great shape and it has a wonderful management team to lead it into the next chapter."

Reporting from Eliza Bavin at Financial Standard contributed to this story.