’The next phase will see us really stretching the parameters of what an insurance brand can offer,’ says new appointee
Pet insurance firm Waggel has appointed Henri Dowling as its new chief executive, with Andrew Leal having decided to step down.
Dowling joins from Correlation One Investments Europe, an early investor in Waggel which now holds a majority stake in the company.
An actuary with an MBA from the University of Cambridge, he has worked closely with Leal during his time at the investment group.
Dowling said: “Leal has been an inspirational leader and has built a truly unique offering for UK pet owners, powered by an exceptional team and a strong company culture.
”I’m proud to take on the role of chief executive and lead Waggel into its next phase of growth.
”The next phase for Waggel will see us really stretching the parameters of what an insurance brand can offer, looking to build on our preventative care initiatives and partner with more like-minded companies to bring a really unique offering to Waggel customers.
“I’m really looking forward to working with such a brilliant team. There’s a lot to do and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
‘Proud of everything’
Waggel was founded by Leal and business partner Ross Fretten in 2018.
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Under Leal’s leadership, the business has grown to insure over 200,000 pets in the UK, generating revenues of £11m in 2024. The firm is projecting £15m for 2025.
Leal said: “I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved at Waggel since launching in 2018.
”It’s been such an amazing journey and I’m grateful to everyone who’s been part of it. Now feels like the right time for me to step into something new and I have every confidence that Dowling will lead this fantastic team into an exciting next chapter.”
His career began in 2019, when he joined a local north London newspaper after graduating from the University of Sheffield with a first-class honours degree in journalism.
He took up the position of deputy news editor at Insurance Times in March 2023, before being promoted to his current role in May 2024.View full Profile
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