Stuart Reid appointed sole chief exec of AXA-owned broker

Paul Meehan and Chris Blackham, joint CEOs of AXA-owned Venture Preference (VP), are leaving the company.

Stuart Reid has been appointed sole chief executive of VP with immediate effect.

In a statement the company said: "Both Chris Blackham and Paul Meehan have played a significant part in the formative stages of the company having previously built Layton Blackham and Smart & Cook into strong businesses.

“We are at an exciting stage in the development of VP and I am committed to continuing to build this business.

Stuart Reid, chief executive, Venture Preference

"Under Stuart’s leadership, VP will continue its strategy to build the company into a leading independent insurance brokerage through continued growth and expansion of the business."

Reid added: “I would like to thank Chris and Paul for the contribution they have made to the business and wish them the best for the future. We are at an exciting stage in the development of VP and I am committed to continuing to build this business.”

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.