Direct Line appoints Adam Winslow as new chief executive

Direct Line Group (DLG)  has today announced the appointment of Adam Winslow as its new chief executive after over six months of searching for Penny James’ successor.

Related topics:  Direct Line,  New Hire
Tabitha Lambie | Editor, Protection Reporter
30th August 2023
Direct Line
"Direct Line Group is one of the UK’s leading insurers with some of the most recognisable brands in the retail and commercial market. It’s a privilege to be invited to lead DLG into the future, particularly given its rich heritage and passion for serving its millions of customers."
- Adam Winslow, CEO of Direct Line Group

Earlier this year, Penny James who took over as CEO of Direct Line Group (DLG) in 2019, was asked to step down after the motor insurer hit a “rough patch” that resulted in an unexpected dividend cut, a sharp fall in its shared, and the threat of a possible credit rating downgrade.

READ MORE: Direct Line insurance group chief executive asked to step down with immediate effect

At the time, DLG announced that Jon Greenwood, chief commercial officer, would be acting as chief executive until the role could be filled. During this time, Greenwood was tasked with driving performance and restoring the balance sheet.

The insurer has today announced that Adam Winslow, current CEO of general insurance (GI) in the UK & Ireland at Aviva, has been appointed CEO of DLG, effective the beginning of the year.

Winslow, who has previously held roles at AIG and is also a non-executive director at Pool Re, the UK’s state-backed terrorism reinsurer, said he was a “privilege to be invited to lead DLG into the future, particularly given its rich heritage and passion for serving its millions of customers.”

“I’m looking forward to working with my new colleagues to drive growth, deliver for customers and create long-term shareholder value,” he said.

Commenting on the appointment, Danuta Gray, chair of Direct Line Group, has said:

“The Board is delighted to announce that Adam Winslow is to be our new CEO. Adam has deep expertise in the UK general insurance market and significant leadership experience, spanning two decades across personal and commercial lines insurance.

“The Board conducted an extensive search and Adam Winslow stood out for his strategic understanding of the sector, outstanding track record of leading high-performing businesses and his focus on driving operational excellence to consistently meet customer needs.        

“I would like to thank Jon Greenwood for stepping up as Acting CEO where he has shown commitment, leadership and focus to improve business performance and for his leadership of the successful commercial function before that.”

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