IFB appoints Fletcher as director to replace Bird

Ben Fletcher has been appointed as the new director of the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB), replacing interim director Phil Bird.

Fletcher, previously IFB head of operations, will take up his new role from 1 March and be responsible for delivering the bureau’s strategy for the next three years and expanding its counter-fraud operation.

The bureau plans to increase its organised fraud investigations, further develop counter-fraud products and diversify its customer base.

Fletcher said: “Having been a part of the business for some years, I feel it’s a real privilege and an honour to now lead the bureau into a new phase of its growth and development.

“A steady increase in investment by the industry and recent results from our customer survey demonstrates the confidence in us to deliver significant fraud savings on behalf of our stakeholders.

“We are in a unique position where our knowledge about fraud and the behaviour of organised criminal networks enables us to develop innovative counter-fraud products; strengthening our customers’ detection of fraud at the front-line and claims-side of their operations.”

IFB chairman David Neave said: “Ben’s appointment provides continuity and stability, enabling us to build on the solid foundations of a highly valued industry service.

“With a strong infrastructure now in place which currently delivers circa £20 million of fraud savings on behalf of the industry per annum, Ben will work alongside the IFB boards, customers and partners to develop the Bureau’s strategy from 2014 and beyond.”