Friends Provident plc appoints new CFO

[private]Friends Provident plc announces that Evelyn Bourke joins the company today as chief financial officer (CFO) and has been appointed to the Board.

Sir Adrian Montague, Chairman of Friends Provident said:

“I am delighted to welcome Evelyn to Friends Provident. Evelyn’s track record and significant experience in financial services will bring added strength to the Board. She joins at a crucial time in the company’s development as we continue to implement our strategy, drive down costs, manage the business through the current recession and position Friends Provident for a strong profitable future.”

Evelyn joins from Standard Life UK Financial Services where she was CFO.

Charles Bellringer, who was appointed chief financial officer on an interim basis in August 2008 will leave the company today.

Sir Adrian Montague said:

“I would like to thank Charles for the important contribution he has made to the strategic review, reducing our costs and ensuring Friends Provident moves forward with a sound financial base.”[/private]