We are very pleased to announce that Lorraine Harfitt has taken up the position of chief executive officer.
Lorraine has more than 30 years’ experience in the market, and has been with us at Asta since 2013, rising from head of risk assurance, to chief operating officer in 2014, and most recently managing director. Prior to Asta she held several senior roles at Lloyd’s and was responsible for leading the implementation of Solvency II across the Lloyd’s market. She continues to work very closely with Lloyd’s; her consistent and expert approach, combined with her deep understanding of the Lloyd’s market, has been crucial in the continued success of Asta’s operating model.
Only this week we announced three new syndicates at Lloyd’s managed by Asta, making a total of 30 new Asta-managed syndicates since the first 15 years ago.
Under Lorraine’s leadership, supported by Asta’s impressive track record in the market, we anticipate continued and significant growth across all areas of the business. Since the announcement of our recent sale to Davies Group, we have experienced considerable momentum. Lorraine will work alongside Davies to build on Asta’s innovative and diverse services, which support clients throughout the lifecycle and will be instrumental in driving Asta to realise its strategic ambitions as the company expands into new ventures and regions.
Lorraine said: “I’m delighted to take on the CEO role at Asta and privileged to steer the group through the next phase of our development. Having been part of Asta’s success over the past nine years, I’m keen to build on our successful operating model and the culture we’ve created. Now is an exciting time to take on the leadership of Asta and I’m very much looking forward to the challenge. With the support of an exceptional team around me, I’m confident we will make the most of the many opportunities the future has to offer.”
Outgoing CEO Julian Tighe, who now becomes an Asta Group Director added: “It’s been a privilege to lead Asta for the past nine years, which has been a period of sustained growth, and I’m particularly proud of our team and the clients we work with. We’re now entering a new stage in our evolution, which promises opportunities so now feels like the right time for me to step away from the CEO role and focus on business development with the Davies Group. I’m delighted to pass the baton to Lorraine, and with her brilliant leadership skills and the support of her excellent team, Asta is set to enjoy a bright future.”