Firman joined this month and will be based in Skandia’s Dubai office, although he will travel to Africa on a regular basis. He will report to Skandia’s head of the Middle East and Africa region, Brendan Dolan.
In the role, Firman will focus on developing relationships with Old Mutual Africa – a division of Skandia International’s parent company, local IFAs and banks.
Firman joins Skandia, which is part of Old Mutual Wealth, from Friends Provident International, where he was senior regional sales manager for Africa. Prior to this he held roles at Metlife Europe and The Hartford Life.
FPI were not immediately available to comment on Firman’s departure and whether he would be replaced.
On the appointment Dolan said: “Matthew’s appointment will help re-enforce our presence in Africa and help us achieve our ambitious growth plans in the region. The growth potential in the area is significant, and we remain committed to servicing and developing our business in Africa.”
Skandia had originally appointed Tom Northway to lead its increased push into Africa, but he unfortunately had to return to the UK after only three months in the role due to unforeseen personal reasons.
