First Central Group (FCG), the parent company of leading UK motor insurance provider 1st Central and Gibraltar based underwriter Skyfire Insurance is restructuring its management team with a series of senior hires.
The news comes as the company, which employs 40 staff in Guernsey, eyes accelerated UK growth and seeks to capitalise on its rapid success in the insurance market during the last ten years.
Simon Walker, previously Chief Operating Officer, has been named FCG’s Chief Executive Officer. He will oversee the evolution of the insurance and technology group to drive continued growth, in addition to exploring strategic partnerships and collaborations designed to respond to the rapidly changing needs of customers and the industry.
Mike Leonard, Chairman and Co-founder, FCG, said: “Since joining our team at the beginning of last year, Simon has already made a significant impact at FCG and his promotion to Chief Executive Officer is in recognition of his excellent contribution to the business. I’m confident that with our two further senior hires we have a formidable team in place, who will lead the business to our next phase of growth in a constantly evolving insurance market.”
John Kennedy joins FCG as the group’s Chief Financial Officer bringing with him considerable experience having held positions as Finance Director for Aviva and RAC as well as CFO at Towergate. He will be responsible for ensuring the business has the financial resources to deliver against its growth aspirations.
Jonathan Guy joins from Co-op Insurance Services (CIS) and has been appointed as the Chief Claims Officer. He will take responsibility for delivering the business’ future digital customer claims strategy and provide leadership on the processes and governance for the group’s claims indemnity spend and reserving.
Simon Walker, Chief Executive Officer, FCG, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for the business. The traditional UK motor insurance sector continues to undergo seismic change, presenting both challenges and opportunities for our business. We already have a fantastic track record of delivering market-leading products and services at the right prices, and our size enables us to be agile and respond to the rapidly changing market. This, coupled with the highly experienced leadership team, will ensure we can continue to deliver the products and services that we know meet the expectations of our customers. We’re very much looking forward to the road ahead.”
