Infocus continues leadership expansion with new appointment

Infocus has welcomed a new head of practice growth, as the firm continues to strengthen its business following several leadership appointments in recent months.

Darren Smith has stepped into the role, where he will lead Infocus' practice development management team to drive a more deliberate, structured approach to help its adviser community pursue growth opportunities, strengthen business performance and execute their strategic objectives, the firm said.

The appointment follows the appointment of former Acclaim Wealth chief executive to the role of executive general manager, platforms last month, as well as a new head of professional standards in March.

Smith brings nearly four decades of experience in financial services across the UK and Australia.

He began his career as an accountant at various insurance and financial institutions earlier in his career. He also stationed at MLC Insurance, Aviva, Mortgage Insurance in senior and leadership capacities.

More recently, he was the managing director at Financial Advice Matters for more than eight years, before transitioning to a business coach and national key accounts manager at Slipstream Group for 12 months.

He was the head of financial wellbeing at My Goal Getter before the current appointment.

"Darren's appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to helping advice businesses build stronger, more scalable and more valuable enterprises," Infocus said on LinkedIn.

"With extensive experience as a business adviser, executive and advice business owner, Darren brings deep expertise in strategy, leadership, business development and performance improvement."