Ex-GAB Robins UK chief executive John Castagno has returned to the market by joining Equity.

He will take up the role of managing director, Direct Broking.

Castagno, 47, left the loss adjuster last year and was rumoured to be looking for a major role in an insurance company.

His previous appointments included BUPA general manager, marketing and Legal and General managing director of general insurance business.

Equity said that Castagno's role will be to deliver the group's "ambitious growth plans within the direct broking market, including affinity partnership schemes, and spearheading the group's internet sales strategy".