Broker Be Wiser asks CFO to step up after CEO steps down

Broker Be Wiser Insurance has appointed a new boss after its CEO stepped down to “pursue other interests.”

Jeff Brinley replaces Sharon Beckett, who stepped down from her role as CEO of Be Wiser at the beginning of January 2021 to pursue other interests. Brinley joined Be Wiser as CFO in November 2020. Brinley’s successor as Be Wiser CFO will be appointed in due course.

Neil Macmillan, the chairman of Be Wiser, said: “Jeff is a highly experienced C-suite insurance executive who has already made a positive impact on our business. I am delighted he is stepping up as CEO to drive the business forward, and look forward to working alongside him in his new role.”

Mark Bower-Dyke, founder of the Andover-based broker, added: “On behalf of all of us at Be Wiser I want to thank Sharon for her immense contribution to the business since she joined us in 2018, and wish her every future success.”

Brinley said: “Be Wiser is one of the biggest names in UK retail broking and I am honoured to be leading the business as we move into in 2021.

“Be Wiser has invested in building a really strong team over the last year, and we’re now well-placed to make the most of the new opportunities arising in the UK commercial and personal lines markets as the economy emerges from the pandemic and life after Brexit.”