Current chairman Patrick McKenna will take over the role of CEO following the retirement of Kevin Mead.

Shawyer joined Ingenious in November last year as a non-executive director, also taking on the role of director at Ingenious Ventures. Prior to that, he worked at accountancy firm Deloitte & Touche for 32 years, where he qualified as a chartered accountant and most recently was a managing partner reporting directly to the chief executive.

In addition to his role at Ingenious, Shawyer continues as non-executive director at HSBC Bank, HSBC France, and airline Silverjet. He is also chairman of helicopter supplier British International.

McKenna comments: ‘[Shawyer’s] considerable experience, industry contacts and reputation will be a huge asset to the company as we continue to grow the business.

‘My resumption of the chief executive role will allow me to be more “hands-on” and to further immerse myself in the numerous opportunities facing the company.’

Outgoing CEO Kevin Mead will retain a non-executive role in the business.

Ingenious was founded in 1998 by Patrick McKenna, former head of the media and entertainment group at Deloitte & Touche. It invests in media and entertainment companies and is planning to launch a securities business later this year.