Newcastle-based personal injury firm Winn Group (Winns) has unveiled a new leadership structure.
Jeff Winn, who set up the business in 2002 and served as chief executive for two decades, was replaced by Chris Birkett at the helm on April 01. The latter came onboard in 2006 and was chief operating officer.
“Chris Birkett is ready for the CEO role, and it was the right time for him to move into that role,” said Winn, who is now executive chairman of the group following a succession period of two years. “He has an immense amount of knowledge, having worked in the industry for over 25 years and understands Winns inside out. He understands the Winns vision to be best in class and to provide excellent customer service, treating all suppliers well.”
Winns is the name behind Winn Solicitors, Winns National Accident Specialists, On Medical 24/7, North East Clinic, Onhealth, On Hire, and On Insurance.
Commenting on his new position, Birkett stated: “I am delighted to assume the role of Winn Group CEO, having undertaken a two-year period of planning toward this move. The change in role isn’t dramatic; this is more evolution than revolution. There’s no change in plans as we’ve been working on the management structure for the last two years-plus.”
“We’re at a place now where I’ve got the strongest management team that we’ve ever had, and that is proven by the numbers we are delivering,” added the chief executive. “Being the first financial year, almost, coming out of COVID, to be able to hit a target of £100 million turnover is unbelievable. The EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) figure will be in excess of £16 million, which is a fabulous percentage of that turnover figure.
“What we have to do as a business moving forward for the financial year 2023 is to be better than that. That £100 million turnover, if we can get anywhere near £110 million, a 10% increase on that, would be a great year for me.”
Meanwhile, referring to his less hands-on post, Winn said the move will allow him to focus on strategy and planning – areas which the ex-CEO said he enjoys. “In practice, it is a role I have had for the last 12 months or so; this formally recognises it and makes the change complete,” highlighted Winn.
