Newgate’s Watt joins FWD as capital markets lead

FWD Group, which last week announced an MBO by two of its directors, has hired Newgate’s Roddy Watt as director in its capital markets division.

Watt will launch and lead FWD‘s capital markets team which will complement the agency’s existing corporate PR, research and investor content offerings. The unit’s remit will include IPO preparation, M&A and aftermarket calender communications, such as the reporting of financial results.

With some 30 years’ experience, Watt has worked in strategic comms and corporate transactions for a range of clients. He has advised governments, stock exchanges, banks, asset managers and professional services firms.

Elliot Lane, FWD joint MD, said: “We are delighted that Roddy has decided to join our growing team at FWD. Myself and co-owner Gug Kyriacou have exciting plans for the business and have been keen to add a capital markets capability to our core offering. We are confident that Roddy will help us to deliver this with his exceptional experience and expertise in this space.”

Watt added: “This is a very exciting time to be joining FWD. Not only have Gug and Elliot recently completed a successful MBO of the business, but they have a tremendous franchise in insurance, financial and professional services, which is where I too have specialised over the years. I am sure our enhanced offering will appeal to both existing and new clients alike.”