Policy Expert appoints ex-PIB leader as COO following Powell departure

Personal lines insurer Policy Expert has appointed Richard Kirby as chief operating officer.

In his new role, Kirby will oversee the transformation, technology, data and product capabilities across the business, including the continued integration of Amazon Connect.

Kirby joins from PIB Insurance Broking, where he served as chief integration and transformation officer for two years, working with management teams across Europe to support acquisition-led growth.

He was also partner and head of portfolio value creation at private equity firm LDC for nearly six years.

Kirby said: “I’m pleased to be joining Policy Expert at a time of significant momentum for the business.

”It has built a compelling proposition and a strong operating model and I’m looking forward to working with the team to support continued growth and deliver consistently strong outcomes for our customers.”

Succession

Kirby succeeds the insurer’s long-serving chief operating officer and co-founder Adam Powell, who has departed after 15 years with the company.

Steve Hardy, chief executive at Policy Expert, said: “Kirby’s appointment marks a key moment in our evolution and reflects the importance we place on operational excellence.

”Our operations have expanded significantly and we have invested in innovative technology to support our customers and have bigger plans yet for 2026. Kirby brings extensive expertise from across the insurance sector and his appointment adds important capability as the business continues to scale.

“At the same time, we are incredibly grateful for Powell’s pivotal contribution, shaping who we are today with dedication and belief in our mission. We wish him every success in what comes next.”