Sebastian James becomes non-executive director of listed insurance group

Direct Line Group has appointed Dixons Carphone chief executive Sebastian James as a non-executive director.

He was chief executive of electrical goods retailer Dixons Retail before its merger with mobile phone seller Carphone Warehouse earlier this month, when he became chief executive of the combined group.

He has experience of the insurance industry, having been chief executive of Synergy Insurance Services before joining Dixons in 2008.

Direct Line Group chairman Mike Biggs said: “[James’s] appointment will complement the skills and experience of the existing members of the board, which will benefit from his profound knowledge of customer service in a digital retail market.”

James added: “I am excited to be joining the Direct Line Group board and helping to deliver a strategy centred on what is best for customers.”

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.