ManyPets’ group chief executive Mendel to depart for ‘change’

ManyPets’s group cofounder and chief executive Steven Mendel had decided to step down.

Mendel, who started the managing general agent (MGA) in 2012, said he was making the move due to ”needing a change” after 12 years running the business.

He will be succeeded by Luisa Barile, ManyPet’s current UK chief executive and former chief financial officer.

While Mendel will step aside from the day-to-day operations in April, he will stay connected to the business in the role of non-executive director.

“After 12 years leading our business, from its beginning as a market-challenging startup to the major pet insurance brand that it is today, it is time for me to step aside,” he said.

”Businesses need change – change of perspective and style and we are no different from that. And I too feel like I need a change.

“While I will be bidding farewell to the day-to-day operations of ManyPets, this is not goodbye. I’ll remain very much connected to the business in the role of an non-executive director on our board.”

Successor

This came after ManyPets announced a new UK executive team line-up in November 2023.

Barile will continue to lead the UK executive team as she steps up to the group chief executive role. 

”I am pleased to be able to continue to tap into Steven’s experience and support as he remains involved in the business from a board perspective,” she added.

“Looking to the future, as the new group chief executive, I am confident that ManyPets is headed in the right direction with a solid plan that builds on the clear success of the past.”

Experience

Mendel added that he had been ”honoured to have driven ManyPets to become the ground-breaking business that it is”.

The firm was formerly known as Bought by Many and set out to help individuals club together to get deals on insurance.

Mendel led the business to a pivot into pet insurance in 2017 – this was a move that saw the business become international, grow its customer base and be given a valuation of $2bn (£1.58bn).

The firm rebranded to ManyPets in March 2022. 

”From pre-existing cover and moneyback, to being the first in the UK to make free video vet appointments part of all policies, ManyPets has played an important part in transforming pet insurance for the better,” Mendel said.

”Businesses need different leaders at different stages and so it is time for a change. For me, I am looking forward to my next challenge, at the same time I am pleased to pass the leadership baton to Luisa who will, I am confident, capably lead Many Group as it continues to grow from strength to strength.”

• Insurance Times has converted dollar amounts into pounds using an exchange rate of $1.27 = £1, which was correct as of 1 February 2024.