New financial services watchdog explains role

Friday 10 July 2015

The Channel Islands' new financial services ombudsman is to make his first public appearance at a seminar later this month to explain his new role and plans for the office.

Douglas Melville was appointed Principal Ombudsman and Chief Executive by the independent board of the new Channel Islands Financial Ombudsman, and has taken up his new role.

Mr Melville will be explaining his role at a seminar being hosted by the BWCI Group on the 21 July at the Pomme d’Or Hotel. Registration is free and you can reserve a place by e-mailing seminars@bwcigroup.com.

He was previously the Ombudsman and Chief Executive at the Canadian Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments. He is also the current chairman of the worldwide International Network of Financial Ombudsmen, and has advised internationally on financial consumer protection for The World Bank and other public bodies.

David Thomas, chairman of the board of the Channel Islands Financial Ombudsman said: “The board is very pleased that we have been able to recruit such an experienced and well-regarded financial ombudsman. He will fulfil a key role in helping to underpin consumer confidence in financial services in Jersey and Guernsey, enhancing the reputation of the finance sectors both locally and internationally.”

Mr Melville said: “I am looking forward to working with the board in completing the establishment of the Channel Islands Financial Ombudsman. Later in the year, we will announce the opening date, once the rest of the staff and the necessary systems are in place.”