GRP lures Bluefin exec into managing director role

Global Risk Partners (GRP), the London Market focused consolidator launched in 2013 by David Margrett, has appointed Neil Thornton as managing director of the firm’s retail broking business.

Thornton joins the firm from Bluefin Insurance Services, where he was head of the commercial division. Prior to this, he served as managing director of Smart and Cook. He also served for many years on the board of British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA).

In his new role Thornton will report to Mike Bruce, chief executive of GRP’s retail broking business.

Bruce joined in April this year from Bluefin Insurance Services, where he served as chief executive officer.

David Margrett, chief executive of GRP, said: “We are delighted that Neil will be joining GRP to focus on the development of our retail insurance broking business. Following the acquisition of AbbeyBondLovis, our first retail broker in August 2015, we have an excellent pipeline of companies, teams and individuals who are attracted by our entrepreneurial approach.

“Neil is highly regarded in the commercial broking sector and his knowledge and expertise will be of great value as we implement our exciting retail broking growth strategy,”