Global fintech leader Acrisure has announced new leadership of the Eleven Network, a UK-based retail insurance broking network which supports brokers throughout their business lifecycle. The following appointments, including Jeff Hobson assuming the role of CEO, are subject to regulatory approvals.
“This leadership team is deeply committed to clients and stakeholders and is comprised of industry and strategic growth experts from the country’s most successful networks, the largest brokers, key insurers and premium finance partners,” said Mark McIlquham, CEO and Director of Acrisure’s UK business. “All told, the future is bright for Acrisure and Eleven as the new leadership team alongside existing talented staff expand the Network’s offering in the UK.”
- Simon Cooter, Chair of the Board: Cooter is the Director for Acrisure UK Retail, acting as Chair for the broking businesses. He is also non-executive director of Acrisure Partner Sutton Winson. Cooter has more than 30 years’ experience in the insurance market, most recently worked as Commercial Lines and High Net Worth Director at Covea Insurance.
- Matt Dyer, Director: Dyer was the founder of ITC Compliance which was the largest Appointed Representative Network in the UK. His experience in growing a network and dealing with Appointed Representatives of different sizes will facilitate a better and more varied service for current and future Appointed Representatives.
- Jeff Hobson, CEO: Hobson was most recently the Regional Director for Burns & Wilcox and prior to that led Chubb’s presence in Leeds. In addition to the experience gained at an MGA and insurer, he also has extensive broking experience during his time as Regional Managing Director at Willis.
- Shahram Shayesteh, Deputy CEO: Shayesteh has more than 13 years of insurance industry experience and joined Acrisure and Eleven as Chief Risk Officer in 2023. Prior to this, he was Head of Compliance at an insurer.
- Kat Cross, CFO: Cross joined Acrisure in February 2024, having previously worked for Tysers, for more than 20 years. She was CFO of the original Tyser firm and later became Deputy CFO of the wider organisation.
- Chris Sedgley, Broking Director: Sedgley joined Eleven Network in February 2024 bringing with him more than 23 years of industry experience, beginning in Personal Lines with Endsleigh and most recently as Managing Director of Jones Taylor Steven Ltd, who grew 33% in 18 months, under his stewardship.
- David Cunningham, Head of Member Services: Cunningham has been at Acrisure for over a year. Prior to his, he led sales and oversight for Close Brothers for more than 25 years.
- Russell Preece, IT Director: Preece oversees all IT and data related functions and manages the Helpdesk, making sure that the business systems are running optimally to support Appointed Representatives and their clients.