Heap replaces Jane Barker

Appoint, join, new, hire, woman, appointment

Jeremy Heap has been appointed as chief executive of Equitas with immediate effect, replacing former chief Jane Barker who will stay on as a non-executive director.

Heap joins from a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, which he joined in 2007, having previously worked for Equitas from its formation in various financial roles, latterly as the director responsible for the recovery of reinsurance assets.

Equitas chairman David Shipley said: “We are delighted to welcome Jeremy back to Equitas; we are most fortunate to be able to appoint a new chief executive with such detailed knowledge of the group, ensuring continuity of leadership.

“We are immensely grateful to Jane Barker for her 19 years of service to Equitas both as finance director and as chief executive since 2007 and we are delighted that she will be staying on as a non-executive director after her retirement as chief executive.”

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.