Jelf’s Rob Worrell takes Janice Deakin’s old role at Ardonagh

UK broking powerhouse Ardonagh has hired former Jelf general insurance head Rob Worrell as chief executive of insurance broking, a spokeswoman for the group has confirmed.

The role was previously held by Janice Deakin, who is now head of Ardonagh’s distribution segment – a broader role that gives her oversight over all the company’s broking brands, including motor specialist Autonet.

As revealed by Insurance Times, Worrell left his old role at Jelf, now owned by global broker Marsh, at the end of March this year.

Worrell’s role as head of insurance broking encompasses the Towergate insurance broking businesses as well as recent acquisition Chase Templeton.

Deakin was named head of distribution following Ardonagh’s organisation into four operating segments: distribution, wholesale, MGA and services.

Gordon Newman leads wholesale, Paul Dilley runs MGA and Adrian Brown heads up services.

Worrell said in a statement: “Ardonagh is a compelling story and I want to play a significant part in the next chapter and beyond, it is that simple.

“I have enduring friendships with Janice and a number of colleagues which I am looking forward to formalising professionally.”

He added: “The team have shown resilience, tenacity and vision, all of which are admirable qualities. What I see is a dynamic, yet simple strategy, access to capital and a fresh entrepreneurial attitude. These factors are tools to deliver success to our people, our clients and our Partners. I relish the opportunity.”