Insurance Times rounds up the most significant appointments, hires and leadership developments from 5 to 9 October 2026
Starting off the week, Zurich UK appointed Sam Thomas as chief underwriting officer on a permanent basis after leading the function in an interim capacity.
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In the role, Thomas will be responsible for underwriting strategy across Zurich UK’s property and casualty business, overseeing the insurer’s approach to risk selection, profitability and portfolio management while supporting long-term growth.
Then, Insurely appointed Andrew Cassell as co-founder and managing director as it looks to accelerate growth and build its presence in the UK commercial insurance market.
Cassell will take responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and development of the broker alongside founder Mark Robinson.
After that, Markerstudy appointed Laura Walker as its new group chief operating officer.
Walker will report directly to group chief executive Kevin Spencer and will oversee key functions across the business, helping to strengthen the group’s operating model and support future growth.
Following this, Jensten Group appointed Clive Buesnel as its new chief executive, succeeding Rob Organ.
Finally, Seventeen Group strengthened its executive leadership team with the creation of two new senior positions, appointing Stephen Smith as chief broking officer and Matthew Crisp as group chief operating officer.
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