Family-owned broker promotes long-serving colleague to marketing manager

Family-owned broker Patons Insurance has promoted long-serving colleague Ben Smith to the role of marketing manager. 

Based in Liverpool, Smith joined the specialist broker in 2015 as a marketing assistant after graduating from the University of Salford. 

In July 2023, he was promoted to marketing team leader as Patons embarked on a growth programme that included a major rebrand. 

Chris Pracy, head of strategic growth and formerly head of marketing at Patons, said: “I have worked closely with Smith for several years and it is a real pleasure to now see him heading up the marketing team.

“Smith has been with the business for more than 10 years, joining us straight from university, and has been a key part of its ongoing success. 

”As he has progressed and developed, Smith has become known for getting things done without any fuss, whether it’s the technical side of marketing, working with customers and suppliers, or coming up with new ideas to promote Patons.

“Patons is a family business and we aim to invest in colleagues’ development and promote from within wherever we can, which is why we are especially pleased to welcome Smith to his new role.”

’Completely unexpected’

Prior to his promotion, Smith had overseen high-profile projects, including the partnership with Rapaid emergency bandages.

The partnership has led to these bandages being installed in taxis in Glasgow and Liverpool.

Following the announcement of his promotion, Smith said: “This was completely unexpected and for someone who works in marketing, I was lost for words at first.

“I am honoured that Patons has put its faith in me and am looking forward to making the most of this opportunity to help continue our ambitious growth plans. 

”Patons is like an extended family and I am delighted to be able to take the next step in my career at a place where I enjoy coming to work. We have a great team here and I’m proud to be a part of it, especially in this exciting time as we continue to grow as a company and bring in new products and services to our customers.”