UK-based digital managing general agent (MGA) Ripe has appointed Alan Thomas as its new CEO, taking over from Paul Williams, who will transition into a non-executive director (NED) role.
Thomas (pictured), who previously served as UK CEO at Simply Business, is expected to leverage his industry experience to drive Ripe’s next phase of development. Under his leadership at Simply Business, he contributed to the strategic direction and growth of the company, which serves landlords and small businesses.
Ripe was founded in 1997 by John Woosey with a mission to offer a new approach to insurance, emphasising marketing and technology. Over the past 27 years, the company has grown significantly, now serving over 360,000 policyholders with targeted insurance offerings across 20 different products.
The company has continued to expand its footprint in both personal and commercial lines, supported by a proprietary technology platform.
Ripe has seen 17% year-on-year growth across its insurance products for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), leisure, and lifestyle markets. Thomas’s appointment comes as the company seeks to build on this momentum.
Upon his appointment, Thomas commented that Ripe has been on his radar over the years, commending its approach of using data, digital marketing, and technology to improve the way customers experience insurance.
“This is a great time to join Ripe, using the platform to transform the way consumers experience insurance, harnessing data and technology to turbocharge our expansion. With such strong foundations already in place within Ripe, I’m confident about what lies ahead and excited to begin this new chapter,” he said.
Ripe’s chair, Laurel Powers-Freeling, said the appointment reflects the company’s ambitions for expansion and its ability to attract top industry talent.
“Our commitment to industry-leading technology, exceptional customer propositions, and delivering value for partners and investors aligns perfectly with Alan’s skills and experience,” she said.
Williams, after almost eight years as CEO, will remain involved with the company in an advisory capacity, along with founder and managing director John Woosey, who will also shift to a NED role.
Outgoing CEO Williams expressed confidence in the leadership transition, expecting Thomas to use his wealth of strategic leadership experience and deep insurance industry knowledge to help the company achieve positive results.
“John and I look forward to supporting him and our team in our new roles and as significant shareholders, and we’re confident Ripe will continue to thrive and innovate in the years ahead,” he said.
The appointment follows the launch of Ripe’s new product, covering motorhomes and campervans.
