The Australian financial services firm Yellow Brick Road has brought in ex-Mercer Wealth Solutions head of financial planning Scott Walters for the newly created role of retail head of financial planning.

YBR has been increasing its branch network in the country since the start of 2010 in a bid to strengthen its wealth management division. Walters brings two decades of industry experience to the position, which will see him responsible for all aspects of the retail network's financial planning service.

From 30 branches in February, YBR has managed to increase its network to almost 40, with plans to reach 52 in the eastern seaboard, Western Australia and South Australia. It is currently operating in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria.