Quindell hires navy chief as it prepares for full listing

Quindell has announced a number of new appointments, including the hiring of former navy chief vice-admiral Bob Cooling as the company prepares for a full stock market listing.

Cooling and Robert Bright are to become independent non-executive directors, following the retirement of Jason Cale.

Tony Bowers, who had previously been the group’s senior independent non-executive director, has also been appointed to the newly created role of vice-chairman.

Cooling spent 33 years in the Royal Navy, during which time he commanded four ships, with his most recent posting being that of chief operating officer for Nato’s strategic level command in America.

Bright has more than 35 years’ managerial experience within the insurance industry, including over 25 years as a main board director for HSBC Insurance Brokers Limited.

In a statement released today the company said the changes to the board’s structure are in preparation for the group’s proposed full listing. It is currently listed on the London Stock Exchange’s Alternative Investment Market, which is for small-cap stocks.

The news is expected to be followed up with further announcements regarding new appointments for additional independent non-executive directors.

Quindell founder and executive chairman Rob Terry said: “The changes announced today continue to reflect our commitment to the development of the group’s board that meets leading practice corporate governance guidance for a group such as ours.

“We are delighted that Robert and Bob have agreed to join the board, having both been members of our strategy integration and advisory board since 2012.”