HW Wood appoints former Towergate head

Independent Lloyd’s brokerage HW Wood has appointed Stuart Rouse as group chief operating officer.

Rouse will work with the London management team and European group directors to help grow the business across UK and Europe.

Rouse previously held roles as chief financial officer of Towergate’s underwriting division and chief operating officer of Towergate Financial. Most recently, Rouse was a senior executive at Aspen Insurance.

HW Wood director Steve Rudduck said: “Stuart’s appointment signals our intention to grow and expand the business significantly in the UK and across Europe. These are exciting times for HW Wood Insurance as we plan to continue to hire high-calibre individuals as part of our growth strategy. Stuart has first class credentials that will play a crucial role in realising our plans.”

Rouse said: “I am delighted to be joining HW Wood at a time when the company is poised for significant growth. The business has already made excellent progress in developing its brand and position across the UK and Europe.

“However, we now have a tremendous opportunity to grow and expand the business further across our key markets and I look forward to playing a major part in that process.”