Cofunds, the UK-based independent investment platform, has hired four financial services sales professionals.

Tony Lord has been appointed regional account manager for the Midlands. He joins from Skandia, where he was a sales manager.

David Groves, latterly of Scottish Widows, joins to focus on the eastern region, bringing with him some 20 years of experience. 

Both these appointments take effect immediately, the firm said in a statement.

Justin Cooper, formerly of Zurich, will be joining later this month to cover the south east region. At Zurich, Cooper built himself a reputation in the field of investment and trusts.

Lastly, in August this year, David Butler will complete the appointments. Butler, who was previously director of third party distribution at Insight, will continue to be based in London. 

“The strength of these appointments demonstrates our commitment to significantly improving our service to advisors across the UK,” said Nick Godfrey, Cofunds’ head of sales.

“Each one of our new account managers has been able to demonstrate a lasting and consistent ability to build strong, productive relationships. Coupled with the improvements to our head office-based support, we are extremely confident of taking our sales service to the next level," he added.

Cofunds has assets under administration in excess of £25 billion (about $38 billion), as of June this year. It provides a platform for administration and management services for advisors and their clients in addition to providing dealing and custody services for financial institutions.