​Bspoke Commercial appoints new director of digital and transformation

Bspoke Commercial has appointed Ian Newman as director of digital and transformation as it looks to expand its technology-led broker trading capabilities.

In his new role, Newman will lead the development and performance of Bspoke Online and the firm’s Acturis eTrade proposition.

He brings more than 20 years of insurance experience spanning insurers, brokers and MGAs, with expertise across underwriting, commercial strategy and distribution partnerships.

Newman said: “I’m delighted to have joined Bspoke Commercial at such an exciting point in its development. It’s a forward-thinking business and there is a fantastic opportunity to build on what has already been achieved through Bspoke Online and take our digital trading proposition even further.

”For me, technology should make it easier for brokers to do business with us. I’m looking forward to building strong relationships and contributing to the continued growth of the business.”

Experience

Newman joins from Ventis Insurance, where he served as director of SME for over a year.

Prior to this, he spent 13 years at Covea Insurance, most recently serving as head of SME strategy and development.

In his new role, he will report to Wayne Tonge, managing director of commercial and delegated authority.

Tonge said: ”Newman’s appointment marks an important next step in our digital trading strategy. We’ve made significant progress with Bspoke Online and now want to build on those foundations and accelerate what comes next.

“Our approach is about combining great technology with specialist underwriting expertise. Whether brokers trade through Bspoke Online, Acturis or directly with one of our underwriters, we want the experience to be fast, straightforward and backed by people who understand the risk.

“Newman brings exactly the blend of commercial, underwriting and digital trading experience we need to drive that next phase and I’m delighted to welcome him to the team.”