Nick Mountifield (pictured) has been named managing director of Academy Insurance Services, taking over from Richard Beaven, who has stepped down due to health reasons. The leadership transition is effective immediately, and Mountifield will report directly to Group CEO Martin Tyler.
Previously serving as group chief operating officer, Mountifield joined Academy in June 2024.
In a news release, Tyler expressed gratitude to Beaven for his pivotal role in the organisation’s development, particularly following its 2023 management buyout (MBO) supported by private equity firm Blixt Group.
“I will be eternally grateful for all that Richard brought to the group,” said Tyler. “He was one of the founders after Academy took its current form following an MBO in 2023. Richard is a well-known and much-respected figure in the UK insurance industry, and we wish him and his family the best for the future.”
Tyler also expressed confidence in Mountifield’s ability to lead the company forward. “It’s good news that, in Nick, we have a seasoned in-house operator ready to step into Richard’s shoes. He has made a significant and positive impact on the group since he joined us in June, and I am confident that he will build on Richard’s achievements and be an excellent leader for the group on the next stage of its journey.”
Mountifield began his insurance career at WTW, where he held senior roles over 24 years. After a brief stint at Allianz, he joined Flood Re in 2015 as insurer engagement manager. In 2017, he moved to PIB, where he led a major operating division and contributed to the company’s growth before joining Academy in 2024.
Mountifield acknowledged the challenges and opportunities ahead. “Richard has left some big shoes to fill, but I’m excited by this new opportunity to continue to build a broker with a highly collaborative culture that delivers value to clients,” he said.
This leadership change follows Academy’s October acquisition of Airsports, a niche and high-net-worth business, as part of its ongoing growth strategy. Tyler emphasised the group’s continued focus on integration and expansion.
“Our pipeline is strong, and we are in discussions with a number of promising opportunities. We continue to enjoy strong support from our investor and remain focused on achieving our medium and long-term growth plans,” Tyler said.
A replacement for Mountifield as COO will be announced in due course.
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