Beazley promotes for new UK and Ireland country manager

Specialist insurer Beazley has appointed Sam Franks as its new country manager for the UK and Ireland.

In his new role, Franks will focus on the development of Beazley’s UK and Irish regional business outside the Lloyds market.

He will also retain his current position within the insurer’s distribution team as head of partner engagement for the UK and Ireland.

Beazley’s European general manager Fred Kleiterp said the creation of the new role “further cements” the company’s commitment to its European proposition and will support clients as they “navigate an increasingly complex world”.

“Sam will be an integral point of contact, developing and enhancing our relationships with our regional partners, regulators and clients, while ensuring our colleagues are supported in fostering their own strategic relationships,” he added.

“His already proven ability to lead a team and enable business development, combined with his regional expertise, makes him the ideal person to spearhead this role in aid of growing our presence in Europe.”

Building on foundations

Franks has led Beazley’s regional broker distribution operation for almost six years, having joined the business in 2018.

During that time, the insurer claims the appointee “bolstered the business’s engagement strategies in the UK” and “built a strong network of broker partners and clients”.

Prior to Beazley, Franks served as Hiscox UK’s regional manager in the Midlands, having been promoted from head of broker operations UK in 2012.

“I’m both proud of the foundations we’ve built with our broker community in the UK and Ireland regional markets and incredibly excited to be playing a role as we grow together and capitalise on the opportunities within the region,” said Franks.

“Beazley has a fantastic team in place and I look forward to working with them as we continue to provide expert advice and specialty solutions to an exciting market.”