BMS MGA Pioneer hires operations head

BMS-owned underwriting agency Pioneer has hired Jonathan Matthews as chief operating officer.

The appointment is part of Pioneer’s plan to expand the reach of its underwriting business.

Matthews joins Pioneer from broking/underwriting firm Ryan Specialty Group (RSG), where he was group chief operating officer.

He was also a core part of the Lloyd’s entry team that acquired Lloyd’s insurer Jubilee and broking firm Direct Group.

Matthews previously held chief risk officer and underwriting management roles with Lloyd’s insurers Liberty Syndicates and Beazley.

BMS chairman Christopher Hopton said: “Pioneer has developed into a strong business with significant growth potential. It has become a dynamic underwriting agency with seven teams operating across four locations, each providing unrivalled coverage in the MGA/MGU [managing general agent/managing general underwriter] arena.

“As Pioneer moves into the next phase of its development, this appointment will enable existing and new teams to develop in an integrated fashion.”