Cowbell promotes Hughes as part of changes to support ‘broker-first approach’

Cowbell has promoted Simon Hughes to the role of senior vice president of global distribution in a move that “directly supports its broker-first approach”.

In his new role, Hughes will look to drive new business across the US and UK, as well as bolster product delivery across the two continents.

Prior to taking up the position, the appointee had been the UK vice president and general manager for the cyber insurer, with him helping build out the firm’s operational capabilities in the region.

Speaking to Insurance Times, Hughes said his promotion came as the firm looks to make sure it has global alignment over distribution.

“We have fantastic distribution at Cowbell,” he said.

“We’ve got thousands of broker partners – both wholesale and retail – in the US and we are building up substantially in the UK.

“Having this global role gives us the chance to have a consistent message across both the territories we are working in at the moment.”

He added: “There’s not that many entities like us who are going to be able to have this global distribution entity.”

Other moves

As part of Hughes’ remit, several regional vice presidents will report directly to him.

This includes Matt Valentine, who has promoted to regional vice president for the Eastern US, and Claud Bilbao, who has moved into the role of regional vice president for the UK.

Michael Bibeau, meanwhile, will continue to serve as regional vice president for the Western US.

Jack Kudale, founder and chief executive of Cowbell, said: “These changes align with our broader vision and reflect our commitment to growth and the remarkable potential of our team.

“We are continually looking for ways to enable greater efficiency and improve responsiveness to the needs of our agents and brokers and this new role will help continue and enhance those efforts.

“I look forward to the significant impact Cowbell will continue to have on the industry – creating value for our partners and policyholders while working to protect small and mid-market businesses.”