Standard Life today announced that Rushad Abadan has been appointed Group General Counsel and will join the company in early 2016, leaving the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

Mr Abadan joined RBS in 2006 and became Deputy General Counsel in 2015.

He has been responsible for various specialist teams including those covering corporate, treasury, regulatory and structural reform matters as well as a range of product teams including lending, funds and structured debt.

During his RBS career, Rushad has played a key role advising on various strategic projects including the restructuring of ABN AMRO, the recapitalisation of RBS and various major transactions including the IPOs of both Direct Line Group and Citizens Financial Group.

Keith Skeoch, chief executive of Standard Life, said: “Rushad has exceptional experience working in a variety of roles with a large international financial institution and I am delighted to welcome him to Standard Life.

“He is joining the company at an exciting time as we continue to build our business around the world.

“He will be a strong addition to our team and I very much look forward to working with him.”

Mr Abadan added: “Standard Life is an impressive business and has transformed over the last few years into a significant global player.

“I am delighted to be joining the company and I look forward to playing my part as the business continues to grow.”