Aston Lark acquires Lloyd’s broker Brunel

Aston Lark, a UK-based insurance broker backed by Goldman Sachs, has acquired Lloyd’s broker Brunel Professions, which specialises in professional indemnity, directors and officers (D&O) and cyber insurance.

Brunel operates from its four UK offices, based in Bristol, London, Manchester and Perth. It also offers specialist claims handling and risk management service.

Peter Blanc, chief executive of Aston Lark, said: “I’m delighted to be welcoming Brunel Professions to the Aston Lark family, and very much looking forward to working with Dylan and the team. Brunel Professions is one of the leading Professional Indemnity brokers in the UK with a truly impressive track record of growth. This acquisition brings an exciting new dimension to Aston Lark’s current business and strengthens our London Market and Specialty capability, and also brings new regional offices into the group in Manchester, Bristol and Perth. We will look to support the Brunel team as they continue their growth in the fast-moving Professional Indemnity market.”

Russell Lane, chief executive of Brunel, added: “Having started Brunel Professions over 15 years ago, it has been an incredible journey and one which would not have been possible without the support of the senior management team, colleagues both current and past, insurers and long-standing client support. The business has been hugely successful over many years, and the memories will live long in the memory bank.

“It was very refreshing listening to Aston Lark and their future plans, and from the moment I met with Peter and Stuart I knew it was a perfect fit. The businesses share similar beliefs in how clients should be serviced, and I am looking forward to watching from outside of the camp, the future success of Brunel Professions. I have no doubt under the safe stewardship of Dylan and Aston Lark, the future is bright, and the business will go from strength to strength.”

Dylan Hughes, managing director of Brunel, added: “I am delighted to be teaming up with Aston Lark and confident in our strategic decision to drive our business forward. Brunel has had an incredible 15-year journey. The thriving business we are today has been made possible through the hard work of excellent staff and support received from senior management, our markets and clients. I believe joining the Aston Lark group will be a great fit for Brunel and will only serve to make our future journey even more successful.”