Former England rugby captain joins Besso

Lloyd's broker Bessohas appointed former England rugby captain, Jason Leonard OBE as a business development consultant.

Leonard, the world's most capped forward, will act as an ambassador, introducing potential clients. Initially his role will be focused on the UK insurance market but there is scope for extending it to include the international market as the relationship develops.

The appointment reinforces the company’s sporting ethos and teamwork approach. Besso believes in the qualities sportsmen can pass from the playing field into the boardroom, such as drive, determination, discipline, commitment and honesty.

Colin Bird, chief executive of Besso Group, said: “At Besso, we believe a person who starts the move is just as important as the one that scores the try. Jason will be an integral member of our team and we believe he will play a key role in opening doors for the new business team. He is highly respected, both as a rugby player and an individual, and we look forward to a valuable, long term relationship with Jason.”

Jason Leonard, business development director at Besso, said: “This is a great opportunity for me to be part of the front line team. As a player I was known for my durability and reliability and I see these as key qualities I will need in this new role. I am impressed both with the service Besso offers clients and its culture – it reflects the same values as I have and this was crucial in my decision to accept this position. I look forward to working closely with Colin and the rest of the team at Besso to deliver results and contribute to the company’s future development.”