An independently-owned investment management business with offices in London and Dorset has announced four new hires and promotions.

Fund and portfolio manager Church House Investment Management has assets under management in excess of £1 billion.

The firm says the global pandemic – and how even the most robust financial plans have been tested – highlighted the importance of effective investment management.

It expects the need for advice to grow.

The promotions and new additions to the team are:

• Andrea Steel promoted to Head of Private Clients for the South West. She will work closely with the Relationship Managers and Client Services team, operating out of the Sherborne offices. In addition to supporting colleagues, her remit includes further developing relationships with local solicitors and accountants.
• Appointment of Ben Stevens as Associate Client Manager. Previously at Investec for five years he will support the work of the Relationship Managers in the Dorset office. Ben holds the Chartered Wealth Manager qualification.
• Vanessa Short joins the Client Service Team. She has a wealth of customer service experience, having previously spent four years with Battens Solicitors.
• Mike Green takes up the position of Operational Assurance Manager, which involves running the governance processes relating to Church House’s range of six investment funds. After eight years overseeing service operations for a direct investment service, he has extensive knowledge of the fund management industry.

James Johnsen, Director and Head of Private Clients, pictured left, said: “Over the last 18 months we have demonstrated a high level of resilience in the face of many challenges.

“It is a great source of pride that our clients remain delighted with their results and the service they have received.

“As consolidation across our industry continues, Church House stands out as one of an increasingly small group of independently-owned investment management businesses.

“By growing the team, we aim to help more people build effective financial plans, the foundations of which are our range of investment portfolios. “