First Names Group, a leading global provider of trust, funds and corporate services, has appointed Pete Emery as Group Chief Operating Officer (COO). The appointment is effective immediately.

Pete, who will be based in the Group’s London office, will work closely with Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Cengiz Somay, and the Management Team to deliver the Group’s strategic objectives. His new role will focus on developing a global operational platform to enable First Names Group to achieve its vision for continued growth. Pete will also oversee group functions, namely: change, HR, technology services, treasury, facilities and management information.

Prior to joining the Group, Pete forged a highly successful career with Barclays. He joined the bank as a graduate and gained experience across a broad spectrum of activities. He initially focused on the Retail and Corporate sectors, including three years as a Corporate Relationship Manager before moving to the Wealth division in 2004 where he was the Chief Operating Officer for the Wealth Intermediaries & International client group. He was subsequently appointed to Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the UK Private Bank until his departure in 2014.

First Names Group is one of the world’s largest independent trust, fund and corporate services providers operating in key strategic locations across the globe.

Sharing the news of Pete’s appointment, Group CEO, Cengiz Somay, commented:

“Pete has experience on both the client and support side which has provided him with a solid understanding across a broad spectrum of disciplines. Having been responsible for all aspects of transformation programmes, Pete has exactly the experience and skills we need. He has built an excellent reputation for strong leadership, delivery and execution. I know he is going to be a great asset to the Group and I couldn’t be more pleased to have him on board.”

Speaking about his new role, Pete said:

“It is a very exciting time to be joining First Names Group and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to become a part of such an innovative and people-focused organisation. As a fast-growing Group there is plenty of scope for me to add to its success and I am really looking forward to working with people across the organisation to help drive its continued success and progression.”