Broker Network has announced the appointment of Des O’Connor as Group Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect following the departure of Andy Fairchild.
Des joined Broker Network in March 2016, as Chief Commercial Officer and has led the Broker Network Partners division, building regional broking ‘powerhouses’ through acquisition of brokers.
Prior to joining Broker Network, Des was Chief Commercial Officer of Brightside Insurance, having previously spent eight and half years at AJ Gallagher, latterly as Managing Director of Gallagher Insurance Solutions.
Commenting on this news today, Executive Chairman Alex Alway said: “I am delighted that we have been able to promote from within the Group. Appointing Des is the right step forward for the business. Des brings with him a deep understanding of the challenges our Members face in a highly competitive, increasingly regulated environment. As is always the case, and as was highlighted at our National Conference in October, we work hand in hand with our Members, Partners and Insurers to champion the role of the independent broking and provide a collective voice. I know Des will do a fantastic job in this next chapter of Broker Network.”
Des O’Connor added: “I am extremely proud to be given the opportunity to lead this unique business. The resilience and determination of independent brokers remains a driving force behind the UK general insurance market, one that has survived the disruption of recession, consolidation, the arrival of the aggregators, and of course customers increasingly looking for smarter, quicker, digital solutions. Building the Partner division has given me the opportunity to really understand the landscape of community broking and get to know our Members.
“I do not underestimate the power that our collective voice has and very much look forward to building upon the excellent work Andy has undertaken to ensure our market-leading position. It is very much business as usual for us and we have a strong management team who will continue to focus on delivering for our Members, Partners and Insurers.”