Paul Compton has left his post as chief executive at WH Ireland, with immediate effect.

Richard Killingbeck, head of private wealth management, will assume the duties of acting CEO, subject to approval from the Financial Services Authority. The firm said Killingbeck will be assisted by Rupert Lowe, chairman.

Killingbeck joined WH Ireland in mid-September and was appointed as an executive board director in November. He was previously managing director of Credit Suisse's UK private banking business, a post he took up in April 2010.

The firm did not give a reason for Compton's departure.

WH Ireland is listed in the UK and provides stockbroking, wealth and investment management and corporate finance solutions.