Thornton-Smith had been with FFastFill since its acquisition three years ago of Exchange Systems, which then became FFastFill’s post-trade processing division.

FFastFill CEO Hamish Purdey said: “Patrick has been one of the key players helping create the integrated FFastFill offering across front, middle and back office. FFastFill is now a fully robust and resilient group and we all wish Patrick all the best in his future endeavours.”

Thornton-Smith said: “It is always difficult to know when to move on after seven years with EST, now FFastFill PTP, helping create a very competitive offering in the back office market. It is now time for new challenges. I wish the company well in its future.”