Newman replaces Sam Hovey who has resigned from the company

Cooper Gay has hired Gordon Newman as chief executive following the acquisition of Newman Martin and Buchan (NMB).

Newman will remain chief executive of NMB and will be joined on both the Cooper Gay and NMB boards by non-executive chairman John Whiter. 

Newman has replaced Sam Hovey, who was chief executive for just over 18 months at Cooper Gay, the Lloyd’s and London market broker for Cooper Gay Swett & Crawford Group (CGSC).

It was also announced today that Hovey has resigned from Cooper Gay after five years with the company.

CGSC Group’s chief executive Toby Esser said: “Gordon’s appointment as chief executive of Cooper Gay is a key milestone in the development of our London business as we restructure its management team to efficiently integrate NMB. 

“His considerable experience and knowledge will help us drive further growth internationally and realise the full potential of our combined insurance and reinsurance broking business.

“I would also like to thank Sam Hovey for all her work and her dedication to the business. We wish her well for the future.”

Last month CGSC completed its purchase of NMB, after receiving approval from the Financial Conduct Authority, in a deal widely reported to be worth around £40m.

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.