FCG promotes COO to CEO

Monday 14 May 2018

First Central Group has announced a management restructure and series of senior hires.

FCG; which is the parent company of leading UK motor insurance provider 1st Central and Gibraltar based underwriter Skyfire Insurance, employs 40 staff in Guernsey and said it is eyeing accelerated UK growth as it seeks to capitalise on its rapid success in the insurance market during the last ten years.

Simon Walker, previously Chief Operating Officer, has been named FCG’s Chief Executive Officer and will oversee the evolution of the insurance and technology group to drive continued growth, in addition to exploring strategic partnerships and collaborations designed to respond to the rapidly changing needs of customers and the industry.

Mike Leonard, Chairman and Co-founder, FCG, commented: “Since joining our team at the beginning of last year, Simon has already made a significant impact at FCG and his promotion to Chief Executive Officer is in recognition of his excellent contribution to the business. I’m confident that with our two further senior hires we have a formidable team in place, who will lead the business to our next phase of growth in a constantly evolving insurance market.”

John Kennedy joins FCG as the group’s Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) bringing with him considerable experience having held positions as Finance Director for Aviva and RAC as well as CFO at Towergate. John will be responsible for ensuring the business has the financial resources to deliver against its growth aspirations.

Jonathan Guy who joins from Co-op Insurance Services (CIS) has been appointed as the Chief Claims Officer and will take responsibility for delivering the business’ future digital customer claims strategy. Jonathan will provide leadership on the processes and governance for the groups claims indemnity spend and reserving.

Simon Walker, Chief Executive Officer, FCG, commented: “This is an incredibly exciting time for the business. The traditional UK motor insurance sector continues to undergo seismic change, presenting both challenges and opportunities for our business. We already have a fantastic track record of delivering market-leading products and services at the right prices, and our size enables us to be agile and respond to the rapidly changing market. This, coupled with the highly experienced leadership team, will ensure we can continue to deliver the products and services that we know meet the expectations of our customers. We’re very much looking forward to the road ahead.” 

John Kennedy, CFO, FCG, added: “FCG successfully operates at an intersection of insurance and technology, and I’m delighted to be joining such a forward-thinking and innovative company. I’m looking forward to harnessing the skills of the team to be at the forefront of new markets, new technologies and to build on its success to date for the benefit of consumers.”  

Jonathan Guy, Chief Claims Officer, FCG, commented: “I’m delighted to be a part of the FCG’s  success story and to get the opportunity to take it to the next level by simplifying the customer claims process, instilling trust back in to the industry and further empowering our valued customers, who sit at the heart of our business success.”