MGA snaps up ex-Gallagher leader for new c-suite role

MGA Pen Underwriting has appointed Hannah Fry as its new chief operating officer.

In her new role, Fry will take responsibility for Pen’s operational capabilities and help the MGA execute its strategy.

She is set to join the firm and become part of the executive team on 6 January 2025.

Her appointment comes as the MGA looks to achieve its goal of £1bn in gross written premium (GWP) by the end of 2025.

Fry said: “Having watched Pen invest, expand and diversify as it nears its goal of becoming a £1bn GWP specialist underwriting business, it’s hard to think of a more exciting time to join the executive team as focus turns to the next phase of strategic growth.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a passionate, high-performing team and with a business that has a real buzz around its ‘one Pen culture’.

“I’m looking forward to building on the operational foundations and enhancing capabilities to underpin future growth, while embracing both the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Experience

Fry will bring 25 years of experience to the role.

She was most recently the operations director for Gallagher’s SME and personal lines division in the UK, a role she has held for five years.

Fry joined Gallagher in 2019 through the Stackhouse Poland acquisition, where she had been director of risk, compliance and central operations.

Her career has also seen her work as an account handler at Donald Jennings and Associates.

Tom Downey, chief executive at Pen Underwriting, said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming Fry into Pen and onto our executive team in the new year in what is a pivotal role as we push forward with our ambitious growth plans.

“Having worked in the insurance industry at the director level across risk, compliance and operations for many years, Fry’s experience, knowledge and expertise are a great fit for Pen and will enable her to deliver positive customer, colleague and carrier outcomes across our operational priorities.

“Her energy and drive are the perfect pairing for Pen and our can-do culture.”