Criterion Adjusters managing director hands ‘over the reins’ to c-suite colleague

High net worth (HNW) loss adjustor Criterion Adjusters has promoted head of specialist services Helena Evans to the role of managing director.

The appointee replaces James Long, who, after 11 years, will step down and into a consultancy role as part of his retirement plan.

Evans joined Criterion in February 2020 and has worked closely with Long to grow the business across the HNW claims market – her new position will become effective from 1 May 2023.

She brings over 30 years of insurance industry experience to the role, having begun her career as a household claims handler at RSA during the summer of 1989.

Prior to joining Criterion, Evans worked at Davies Group for around seven years – starting as a loss adjustor before moving up the ranks to her latest role as head of major loss and private clients director.

She also served as president of the Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters in 2022.

Developments

Commenting on his departure, Long said: “After 37 years in adjusting, it’s time to move on.

“I am handing over the reins to Helena, who I know will drive Criterion onto the next phase of its exciting growth journey.

“Helena’s appointment also reflects our commitment to succession planning, which is a major part of our strategy and will hopefully see more of our team progress within Criterion.”

Evans added: “I’m delighted to follow James and lead Criterion forward. We are totally focused on delivering the best possible HNW claims capability to our clients.

”James has shaped the identity of Criterion, building the business into what it is today and I intend to continue to develop our great business.”