A wave of key appointments across the UK insurance market this month underscores a sustained focus on digital innovation, delegated authority expansion, and the strengthening of specialist underwriting capabilities.
Atrium Promotes Adam Payne to Deputy Head of Digital Underwriting
Atrium, the Lloyd’s-based specialty insurer, has elevated Adam Payne to the role of deputy head of digital underwriting. In this new capacity, Payne will work alongside Simon Lewis, head of digital underwriting, to scale Atrium’s digital operations and drive strategic innovation.
Payne’s remit includes overseeing the development and growth of digital platforms such as AUGold, Atrium’s proprietary quote-and-bind solution. AUGold, which underwrites specialty business across multiple regions, recently enhanced its functionality with the launch of a full lifecycle API for agency partners.
In addition to his platform responsibilities, Payne will play a pivotal role in advancing Atrium’s innovation initiatives. This includes supporting projects under the Lloyd’s Lab and Product Launchpad, as well as contributing to Atrium Innovate, the company’s internal product development arm.
Steve Parker Appointed Managing Director of Vasek Insurance
Gallagher has appointed Steve Parker as managing director of Vasek Insurance, its UK-based managing general agent (MGA) specialising in non-standard property insurance. Parker will lead operations within Gallagher’s UK & Ireland Retail division, with responsibilities spanning product development, insurer relationships, and distribution strategy.
Vasek Insurance delivers tailored solutions for a range of property risks, including landlord cover, unoccupied properties, high-net-worth residences, and blocks of flats. With a team of 80 insurance professionals, the firm caters to brokers and clients across the UK.
Parker brings over 30 years of experience to the role, having held senior positions in both personal and commercial insurance across the UK and Middle East. He most recently served as product development director at Staysure Group, following a tenure as chief insurance officer. His previous roles also include managing director at Jensten Underwriting and associate director at Coversure Insurance.
He succeeds James Collins, who now leads Gallagher’s national real estate offering. Parker will report to David Birch, managing director of SME at Gallagher UK & Ireland Retail.
In related news, Gallagher recently appointed Clare Francis as an independent non-executive director. Francis now chairs the remuneration committee and also serves on the nominations, audit, and risk committees.
Root Platform Names Oliver Evans as Head of Growth UK
Root Platform, a technology provider focused on delegated authority insurance business, has announced the appointment of Oliver Evans as head of growth UK. Evans will spearhead Root’s expansion efforts in the UK market, helping insurance firms digitally manage and distribute delegated authority products.
Evans brings a strong track record in insurtech and underwriting, having held leadership positions at firms such as Praedicat and Loro. He also has experience underwriting casualty treaty reinsurance at Lloyd’s. His background spans go-to-market strategy, partnership development, and product innovation across both the UK and North American insurance landscapes.
