Standard Life appoints managing director of workplace and retail intermediary businesses

Standard Life has appointed Emma Furlonger as managing director of its workplace and retail intermediary businesses.

Furlonger had led both businesses on an interim basis since April 2026, after Gail Izat became chief operating officer (CCO) for pensions and savings.

She has nearly 30 years of experience in pensions and long-term savings, covering workplace pensions, intermediary distribution, client relationships and business growth.

Furlonger joined Standard Life in 2021 as head of DC workplace distribution and became workplace trading director in 2025. 

She previously held senior roles at Legal & General, Aviva, Friends Life and Friends Provident.

Furlonger said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed to this role. We’ve built strong momentum across Workplace and Retail Intermediary, with a clear focus on delivering good outcomes for members, customers and advisers. 

“I look forward to building on that progress as we continue to invest in our propositions, support more people with their long-term finances and help drive the next phase of growth for the business.”

Angela Byrne, chief executive of pensions and savings at Standard Life, said: “I’m pleased to confirm Emma Furlonger’s appointment as Managing Director of our Workplace and Retail Intermediary businesses.