Recently launched broking platform appoints new group development director

Ascend Insurance Holdings (AIH) has appointed John Read as group development director as it continues to build its national broking platform.

Read will be responsible for driving AIH’s growth with a focus on creating a group centred on independent commercial lines brokers across the UK.

He takes up the role after serving as managing director in the WTW Networks Division and regional managing director in the West Midlands.

He started his 30-plus year career with Aviva and has also worked for Marsh and Allianz.

Read said: “This is the perfect time to be joining AIH as it expands and I look forward to working with the team and delivering on their strategy of partnering with brokers who want to retain their identity while benefiting from long-term capital, operational support and strategic investment with a business that has a strong client-first culture.”

Growth ambitions

AIH was granted FCA permission to launch as a new broking platform in April 2026, with Inflexion supporting the venture with capital backing of up to £200m.

The firm said Read’s ”proven track record in partnering entrepreneurial brokers through growth and change will be a major asset for AIH as it expands”.

Matthew Collins, chief executive at AIH, added: “Read’s expertise and experience will help accelerate our growth ambitions while preserving the skills, client focus and local strength that have made our group companies successful.

“We’re excited to welcome Read to the team and look forward to the impact he will have as AIH continues to grow.”