Chaucer appoints new head of claims as veteran retires

Chaucer Group has appointed David Smith to the role of group head of claims.

Smith will succeed Tony Gates on 1 January 2026, who retires after 35 years with the company.

Smith brings with him 35 years of experience at Chaucer, many of those spent working closely with Gates.

Having initially worked in underwriting and claims, Smith went on to hold the titles of claims adjuster and deputy claims manager, before being appointed head of first party claims in 2016.

Smith said: “It has been a joy to know and work with Gates for such a long time and I would like to add my thank you from everyone at Chaucer for all he has contributed.

“The claims team is in an excellent place thanks to his guidance and I know we will build on these achievements in 2026 in continuing to provide excellent service to Chaucer’s clients.”

‘Right time’

Gates said that he was retiring as “now feels like the right time”.

”I have thoroughly enjoyed my career at Chaucer and it has been a real privilege to enjoy great success with this team,” he said.

”Having worked closely with him for some time, I know Smith is the right person to assume my role and I wish him and Chaucer the best for the future.”

Richard Milner, Chaucer chief executive, added: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Gates for his outstanding contributions over many years. He has been an exceptional leader of our multiaward-winning claims team and has played a pivotal role in their continued success.

”Thanks to his talent for mentoring, we are able to achieve such a seamless leadership transition and I am confident that Smith is the ideal person to carry forward our commitment to delivering excellent claims services to our clients.”