In a significant development, Jacqui Gillies, the marketing and proposition director at Guardian, is stepping down after a distinguished career spanning 42 years.
- Gillies, who joined Guardian in 2016, played a crucial role in launching the brand and developing significant propositions such as Income Protection and Life Essentials.
- Her departure is set for the end of December, when her responsibilities will be transferred to Hilary Banks, the commercial director, through her direct reports.
- Guardian’s interim CEO, Peter Mann, introduced the new strategic direction for 2025, emphasising consolidation over rapid expansion.
- The strategy focuses on strengthening relationships with firms and advisers while continuing to deliver outstanding service and outcomes.
After a remarkable 42-year tenure in the financial services industry, Jacqui Gillies, Guardian’s marketing and proposition director, has announced her departure, marking the end of an era. She began her career at Guardian in 1982, then known as GRE, and rejoined the company in 2016. During her tenure, Gillies was instrumental in the 2018 launch of Guardian’s brand and the creation of significant propositions including Income Protection and Life Essentials. As she steps down, Gillies expresses pride in the company’s journey and achievements.
Gillies plans to leave her position at the end of December. Her team, including the head of marketing, Rachael Welsh, and head of proposition, Jo Penrose, will begin reporting to Hilary Banks, Guardian’s commercial director. Reflecting on her career, Gillies notes her unexpected longevity at Guardian and her initial lack of foresight on the company’s vast growth.
Interim CEO Peter Mann has delineated Guardian’s strategy for 2025, a pivotal move focusing on consolidation and the maximisation of value. In a climate of macroeconomic challenges, Mann acknowledges the necessity to shift focus away from rapid scaling to consolidation, yet underscores the company’s commitment to growth despite industry trends of declining protection sales. He highlights Guardian’s remarkable annual growth, even amidst a pandemic and cost of living crisis, as a testament to its resilient business model.
Mann articulates a forward-thinking vision aiming to deepen relationships with firms and advisers, ensuring that Guardian’s distribution footprint and product set continue to deliver valuable outcomes for customers. His strategic narrative involves leveraging existing strengths while adjusting to the evolving economic landscape.
In his tribute to Gillies, Mann emphasises her significant contributions, expressing regret at her departure. Her leadership and innovation leave a lasting impact. Mann’s message also conveys well-wishes for Gillies, hoping for a deserved rest after her long and successful career.
Jacqui Gillies leaves behind a formidable legacy at Guardian as it embarks on a strategic journey focused on consolidation and relationship-building.
