Aquis Exchange founder Alasdair Haynes is stepping back from the day-to-day running of the company effective immediately amid health concerns.
Haynes, who has acted as CEO of Aquis since its launch in 2012, said that for health reasons, he has decided to reduce his workload, resigning as chief executive, though maintaining his relationship with the business under his new role of president.
“I will remain close to the business that I love, but in a less demanding capacity,” the 65-year-old said.
“Moving away from being the CEO is bittersweet for me, but it’s definitely not goodbye – One’s health must be taken seriously and so I am very happy that in my new role as President, this enforced pulling back from day-to-day responsibilities, will allow me to continue to play a part in the Aquis story.”
Chief operating officer David Stevens, 58-years-old, has been selected to take over from Haynes.
“I am looking forward to guiding Aquis through the coming months and beyond,” Stevens said.
“The Group has an incredibly strong leadership team…along with an exceptional cohort of employees who work tirelessly every day to deliver on our vision of creating and facilitating better markets for a modern economy.”
Last November, the London-based challenger stock exchange agreed terms to be taken over by Swiss bourse Six Group at 727p a share.
The share price of Aquis has more than doubled since the announcement, reaching 700p.
According to Aquis, the leadership change will not impact the cash offer from Six, which has yet to be completed.