Mr Leckridge, a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services. He previously served as head of proposition and Chartered Financial Planner at Johnston Carmichael Wealth.

His previous roles also include working as a Chartered Financial Planner for firms Mearns & Co and Carbon Financial, as well as AWD Chase de Vere where he was a financial planner.

AC Wealth team of independent financial planners now has over 18 specialists.

Jen Paice, chief executive officer (wealth), said: “The roots of our business may be in the North East of Scotland, where we continue to nurture lasting client relationships, but we’re ready to bring the benefits of our trusted face-to-face financial planning to more people across the country.

“The appointment of Ross and the development of our financial planning team in Edinburgh makes this a reality. And his role as a Chartered Financial Planner reflects our commitment to providing the highest standards of professionalism and best practice as we grow.

“Combined with the legal and conveyancing services across the wider Aberdein Considine business, we are uniquely placed to support clients as their life evolves and be there for the conversations that matter.”

Mr Leckridge added: “AC Wealth delivers the gold standard in everything it does, and I’m excited to bring my experience of the Edinburgh area to build the brand’s reputation as a leader in Scotland’s financial planning sector.

“I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running in 2024 and helping the business grow this year and beyond.”