Tonge named broker’s new head of sales

Wayne Tonge

Former Keelan Westall managing director Wayne Tonge has joined building defects underwriting agency BLP Insurance as head of sales.

Tonge resigned from Arthur J Gallagher-owned Keelan Westall in September 2014.

Gallagher acquired Keelan Westall as part of its £38m purchase of broking group Barbon’s property and commercial book in May 2013.

In his new role at BLP, Tonge will be responsible for delivering the company’s residential sales targets for 2015 as well as driving the business’s regional strategy.

BLP chief executive Kim Vernau said: “We are really excited that Wayne will be joining BLP Insurance and adding further strength at a strategic level.

“As construction increases across the country and more investment is ploughed into the sector, his appointment ensures that we are well positioned to capitalise on the subsequent demand for commercial and residential building defects insurance, both in London and across the regions.”

Tonge added: “As homebuilders race to build more and more new homes, the demand for a warranty that oversees the quality of the build during construction and protects the homeowner in the event of defects occurring later down the line is only going to increase.

“I am excited to be joining BLP Insurance at a time when the firm is experiencing a growing demand for its products and services and look forward to working alongside the team to support the firm’s growth.”

BLP is owned by insurance services provider Thomas Miller. The agency’s products are underwritten by the UK branch of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty.

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