South Essex Insurance Brokers' boss Barry Fehler succeeds late Andrew Paddick

Broker Direct, the broker-owned insurance management company, has appointed Barry Fehler to the position of non-executive chairman with immediate effect.

Fehler, who was previously the non-executive director representing the broker shareholders, is also the managing director and founder of South Essex Insurance Brokers and has worked in the industry for 45 years.

He will effectively succeed the late Andrew Paddick who pioneered the Broker Direct model.

Broker Direct group chief executive Roy Green said: “We are extremely pleased and fortunate to be able to announce that Barry Fehler will be taking up this new responsibility. With the launch of OurNetwork his extensive broking knowledge and commitment to the independent broker cause will be invaluable. His advice and guidance will be valued across the company and especially in our growing retail business.”