Legendary Edinburgh-based UK life insurance and investment executive David Henderson — Aegon UK’s first CEO — has died, aged 81.

Aegon UK said: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of David Henderson, Aegon UK’s first CEO following the demutualisation of Scottish Equitable and merger with Aegon in the 1990’s.

“David was pivotal in shaping our business, and we remain grateful for his lasting contribution to Aegon UK. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Mary, his family, and friends.”

Henderson, known as “Hendo” to friends and colleagues, was known for his no-nonsense approach to work and life.

Scotland’s leading corporate PR guru Scott White, who worked with Henderson for years, said: “Hendo ruled with a rod of steel but was passionately loyal to people he would trust — at the same time (he would) call it out when it wasn’t to his standards.

“He … moved Scottish Equitable, subsequently Aegon UK, into very successful uncharted territories.”