Fairchild leaves after four and half years at the network, and his replacement has already been revealed
Broker Network has today announced that Andy Fairchild has left the company.
Des O’Connor has already been revealed as his replacement.
Fairchild joined the Network as chief executive in 2014.
During this time, he has overseen the development of the Network’s three pillar strategy; comprising members, products and partners.
Commenting on this news today, Executive Chairman Alex Alway said: “Andy has played a vital role in the recalibration of the business over the past 4 years, following a refresh of our strategy and of course the creation of our Partner division.
”I know our members and staff will join me in thanking him for his passionate oversight of such an important chapter in the business.”
Andy Fairchild added: “I am proud of the resurgence of Broker Network as one of the leading forces in UK Independent Broking. I would like to thank our Members, Partners, Insurer Partners and our People for their dedication and loyalty throughout.
”I would like to wish Broker Network every success in the future.”
In his four and a half years at Broker Network, Fairchild oversaw countless acquisitions. Most recently, its partner, Finch Group’s acquisition of Southampton-based SIA.
O’Connor comes in
Coupled with the news of Fairchild’s departure, Broker Network has announced that chief commercial officer, Des O’Connor will step in as the new chief executive.
O’Connor 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.
Before joining the Network, O’Connor held senior positions at Brightside and AJ Gallagher.
Commenting on this news, executive chairman 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.”
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.”
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