John Wilford, one of six managing directors axed from Lazard last year, has joined British Linen Advisers, the UK corporate finance firm, as chief executive.

Wilford was with Lazard for 17 years and was involved in new business development and executing corporate finance deals. He joined the firm in 1985, becoming a director in 1994 and a managing director in 1999. His role at British Linen Advisers is newly created.