Claims specialist Simon Maude to report to Russell Crewe and Colin Jones

Appointment

Broking firm Direct Group has hired Simon Maude as claims development leader to help deliver the company’s Total Claims Solution offering.

He will report jointly to claims business unit director Russell Crewe and validation unit director Colin Jones.

The Total Claims Solution offering integrates Direct Group’s first notification of loss, claims servicing, validation and replacement processes. The integration is designed to offer efficiencies for insurers and improve customer service.

Crewe said: “Simon’s appointment is an important step forward in our strategy to grow our Total Claims Solution market offering.”

Maude added: “Russell painted a compelling picture of the company’s ambitions. I am delighted to have this opportunity and look forward to helping the team deliver Total Claims to our insurer clients.”

Maude has held a number of senior roles in the claims sector, including managing director of Independent Inspections, managing director of Ansa Group, divisional director of McLarens Claims Management Services, divisional director of Cunningham Select and regional director for Cunningham Lindsey.

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.