London P&I Club announces new chief executive as Gooch steps down

The London P&I Club has appointed James Bean as its new chief executive as it announced that Ian Gooch will step down.

Gooch has spent the last 15 years as the top boss and 21 years as a director of A.Bilbrough and Co, the company that manages The London P&I Club. 

While Gooch will step away from chief executive duties at The London P&I Club, he will continue as a member of the A Bilbrough and Co team, providing support to Bean and the senior management team.

“Having served The London P&I Club and Bilbrough for over two decades, I am very proud of what our team has accomplished,” Gooch said.

”After such a tenure, following a strong renewals season and the club’s positive trajectory, I feel the time is right to step aside.

“I am confident that the club will continue its growth as an independent mutual marine insurance provider under James’ leadership and that he will bring new perspectives and opportunities to evolve.

”He is exceptionally experienced and brings a deep industry knowledge, a proven track-record of success and a shared appreciation of the values of the club.”

Bean experience

Bean, who is a qualified solicitor, has worked within the marine insurance industry since 2005.

He was appointed to the NorthStandard’s senior leadership team in February 2023.

Prior to that, he was the group managing director at the Standard Club.

“It is a real privilege to take this next step in my career and join The London P&I Club at an exciting time for the company,” Bean said.

”I look forward to working closely with the club’s board of directors, members’ committee and management group, as well as its members and assureds.

”On a personal level, I greatly valued all of my time at NorthStandard and the opportunities and experiences afforded to me over the past 19 years and I would like to thank everyone for their continued support.”