Abrdn CEO Stephen Bird Steps Down

UK asset management firm Abrdn has announced that Stephen Bird will be stepping down as group CEO after a four-year tenure. The decision comes after a significant strategic repositioning of the company, with both the board and Bird agreeing that it is the right time for him to pass the leadership to the team he has built.

Jason Windsor, who joined Abrdn as group CFO in October last year, will take over as interim group CEO while the company conducts a formal search for a permanent replacement. Bird will collaborate with Windsor until June 30 to ensure a smooth transition before going on garden leave starting July 1. Bird’s official employment with Abrdn will conclude on December 31.

Reflecting on his time at Abrdn, Bird described his leadership role as a privilege, especially during what he termed an intensely challenging period for the industry. Bird expressed confidence in leaving Abrdn in a strong position, citing increased revenue diversification, a solid capital base, and a revitalized leadership team ready to fulfill the company’s potential.

Under his guidance, Abrdn launched a transformation program in January aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs, which Bird hoped would restore the core investments business to higher profitability. Bird also led the successful $1.9 billion acquisition of the subscription-based investment platform Interactive Investor in December 2021.

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