CRS Group
Lloyd's broker Cameron Richard and Smith announced the appointment of new executive chairman Tony Pickering, a new company name – CRS Group – and a new corporate logo.
Pickering, together with Peter Smith, the group's chief executive, will lead the group in its strategic plan for continued growth.
Peter Smith says: "We are delighted to have attracted someone of Tony's calibre to become executive chairman. I have no doubt that with Tony's help, in combination with the many great people we already have, CRS Group will go from strength to strength."
Tony Pickering says: "I was thrilled when Peter approached me to become chairman as I can totally relate to the company's strategy for growth. I thoroughly enjoy building successful broking businesses and I'm sure we will continue to build on the winning foundations already laid by Peter and all the team at CRS Group."
Pickering spent 17 years at CT Bowring, as a director of its marine division, leaving in June 1980 to become one of the six original founders of Jenner Fenton Slade (JFS).
Following Aon's acquisition of JFS, Pickering became chairman of a new broking house, Agnew Higgins Pickering (AHP). Under his chairmanship AHP's annual income reached £17m within seven years of its formation.
In 2005 AHP was acquired by JLT, following which Pickering left the company to lend his management experience to several companies and in particular, has advised CRS Group on a number of specific projects.
He is married, has a son and daughter, and lives in Surrey. His hobbies include motor racing – specifically racing cars from the 1950s, and pursuing this sport actively around Europe.
His son, an energy broker for Marsh, is also a keen motor racing enthusiast, having competed in the past five 24-hour Le Mans motor races.
Pickering also supports Tottenham Hotspur.
