ERS, the UK-based specialist motor insurer, has announced the promotion of Annie Ward to Head of Bespoke Personal Lines and Agriculture. Ward, who joined ERS in 2014, most recently served as Product Manager for bespoke personal lines.
In her expanded role, Ward will lead the underwriting strategy and performance across both the bespoke personal lines and agriculture portfolios. These segments encompass a diverse array of specialist vehicles, including high-net-worth and prestige cars, private collections, overseas vehicles, and agricultural or estate vehicles. Her remit also covers leisure and recreational vehicles, such as those used on golf courses and in zoos.
Ward will report directly to Scott Tillbrook, Active Underwriter at ERS, who previously oversaw agriculture, commercial lines, and bespoke personal lines before stepping into his current position.
Commenting on the appointment, Tillbrook highlighted ERS’s commitment to internal talent development, stating, “We continue to prioritise the growth of our people and are pleased to see Annie take on this key leadership role.”
Ward noted the ongoing evolution of digital trading capabilities for specialist risks, emphasising their role in improving response times and streamlining the quoting process for brokers and clients alike.
Her promotion comes amid a shifting landscape in the UK personal lines insurance market. After a period marked by rising premiums—particularly in motor insurance—the market is beginning to soften. According to a recent report by Aon, improved insurer performance, greater competition, and increased capacity are contributing to more competitive pricing and greater choice for consumers.
