Amid strategic shifts for 2025, Guardian’s marketing director Jacqui Gillies departs after a distinguished 42-year career.
- Gillies joined Guardian in 2016, playing a pivotal role in launching the brand to market in 2018.
- Her departure marks a new era as her responsibilities will pass to Hilary Banks, Guardian’s commercial director.
- Guardian’s interim CEO, Peter Mann, unveils a 2025 strategy focusing on strengthening adviser relationships.
- Guardian aims to consolidate growth amidst macroeconomic challenges, recognising Gillies’ valuable contributions.
Jacqui Gillies, after an illustrious career spanning over four decades, has decided to step down from her role as marketing and proposition director at Guardian. Since her joining in 2016, she has been instrumental in establishing Guardian’s presence in the market, particularly noted for the brand’s launch in 2018.
Gillies is set to depart at the end of December, transitioning her responsibilities, including leadership of the marketing and proposition teams, to Hilary Banks, Guardian’s commercial director. This change signals a strategic realignment as Guardian adapts its operations for future challenges.
Peter Mann, Guardian’s interim CEO, articulated the company’s forward-looking strategy aimed at enhancing relationships with firms and advisers. Despite economic headwinds, Mann expressed commitment to growth, emphasising a shift from rapid scaling to leveraging existing assets for value maximisation.
Guardian has achieved remarkable year-on-year growth, sometimes over 40% in sales, even amidst global disruptions like the pandemic. The company now seeks to consolidate its gains, aiming to unlock value from its established distribution channels and innovative products.
Mann acknowledged Gillies’ significant impact, noting her contributions during a transformative period for Guardian. He reflected on the company’s evolution under her leadership and wished her a restful retirement after such an extensive and successful tenure.
Jacqui Gillies leaves a legacy of innovation at Guardian, as the company embarks on its strategic journey for 2025.
