LONDON -- ZEDRA, a global specialist provider of Active Wealth, Corporate & Global Expansion, Funds and Pension & Incentives services, announced the appointment of Dean Blackburn as Chief Executive Officer.

Having joined the business as Deputy Chief Executive Officer in September 2024, Dean has a proven track record in inspiring and motivating teams - fostering a culture of collaboration, and innovation, which has consistently translated into strong business performance and growth. Dean brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience across the financial and professional services sectors, having previously served as Chief Commercial Officer and Group Head of Institutional Client Services at JTC.

Based in Jersey, Dean will work closely with the firm’s senior leaders to ensure the continuation of exceptional service delivery for clients.

Speaking to his appointment, Dean commented, “I am thrilled to step into this role at such a pivotal time in our evolution as a business. Having doubled in size in the past three years alone, we have achieved considerable success expanding into new markets. I look forward to working with our global team of exceptional professionals to continue enhancing our diverse service offering and delivery as we enter this new chapter together.”

ZEDRA’s Executive Chairman, Bart Deconinck remarked, “Dean’s appointment will come as no surprise to those who know him. He has a sharp commercial outlook, natural leadership abilities and clear vision for the future of ZEDRA. We are confident that Dean will continue our legacy under his leadership, driving the business forward and achieving our ambitions as we evolve.”

Having worked closely together since Dean joined ZEDRA, Ivo Hemelraad will now move to a non-executive director role on the Group Holdings board as Dean takes up the Chief Executive Officer role.

Bart Deconinck continued, “Ivo’s move to a non-executive role marks the end of an incredible era. At the core of our operations and leadership team from the outset of his journey with us, Ivo leaves an unmistakable legacy that I know the team will proudly continue.”

Dean’s appointment marks an exciting chapter for ZEDRA as the firm continues to expand its global presence and service offerings, while further strengthening its position as a trusted partner, supporting both their clients and employees in achieving their ambitions.