Close Brothers Premium Finance (CBPF) has a new managing director in the form of Shaun Hooper (pictured), who has made the switch from motor broker Complete Cover Group where he was chief executive.
Effective immediately, Hooper replaces Seán Kemple as premium finance MD while the latter takes on wider responsibilities as chief executive in charge not only of Close Brothers’ UK motor finance unit but also of the group’s premium and motor finance teams in Ireland.
“I want to thank Seán for his exceptional leadership of the premium finance division,” said retail CEO Rebecca McNeil in an emailed release. “In the face of challenging market conditions, he has built CBPF into a powerful, focussed business with a clear strategy and strong and enduring relationships with our 1,600 broking partners.”
Based in Wimbledon, Close Brothers’ UK premium finance line-up consists of 400 people. Kemple led the roster from May 2021.
McNeil added: “It now makes sense for [Kemple] to focus his considerable talents on this new role where we have high expectations of further growth in both our premium and motor finance divisions in Ireland and in motor in the UK.”
Hooper, meanwhile, is “super excited” to be onboard and looks forward to building on what he described as his predecessor’s “great work”.
“We have a great reputation among our broking partners, and the power of the bank at our back will underline for our customers the value of longevity, financial solidity, and consistency in what is, currently, a volatile market undergoing rapid change,” commented the Bluefin alumnus whose credentials include time spent at Lloyds Bank Insurance, AXA, and Swett & Crawford.
“During the past year, the premium finance division has built an experienced, knowledgeable senior team. This is a fantastic opportunity for me, and I’m looking forward to playing my part in achieving the premium finance division’s long-term strategic ambitions.”
Welcoming Hooper, McNeil cited his lengthy experience in senior roles with insurers, wholesale markets, and broking.
“I am thrilled that someone of his calibre and experience has chosen to join our team,” she said. “He is steeped in broking and champions a digital-first agenda. I’m confident the market savviness and deep understanding of the broking environment he brings to this role will boost our plans for further growth in the UK premium finance sector.”
