The Association of Friendly Societies has appointed Martin Shaw to the new position of general secretary.
Shaw has previously worked for the FSA and the ABI in various capacities. The AFS represents 53 societies in the UK.
AFS president Colin Paskell said: "The appointment of a general secretary was requested by our members who want to take the AFS forward as the trade association best placed to represent their needs.
"Friendly societies play an important part for the consumer in today's financial services market by providing access to products and savings plans that other organisations are simply not in a position to provide. Martin brings some very valuable experience to the friendly society movement which will help us to obtain greater recognition and understanding at the levels where it is most needed."
Shaw commented: “The relevance of friendly societies in the modern day financial services market is grossly underestimated by many. Take the Child Trust Fund as one example, few know that it is friendly societies which provide over half of all CTF products to the UK public at present. This is an all encompassing role and a challenge that I very much looking forward to embracing."
