Haigh to step down at Engage Mutual

ENGAGE Mutual’s finance director Peter Burrows is to become acting chief executive after Andrew Haigh announced he was to step down after more than 10 years in the role.

Mr Haigh will leave the Harrogate-based savings and health insurance friendly society at the end of January.

Mr Haigh said: “I feel privileged to have been at the helm of the Society, for over 10 years, during which time we have seen substantial year-on-year growth, often in challenging times. 

“I am proud to be leaving the Society in such good shape. It is in a strong financial position and highly regarded by its customers for all that we do on their behalf.

“Having worked with the Board to set the Society on course for the next five years and beyond, I have decided that now is a natural and appropriate time for me to step aside.”

Mr Burrows will remain in the post until a successor is appointed.

Chairman David Robinson said: “On behalf of all at Engage Mutual, I would like to thank Andrew for all that he has done for the Society both as chief executive and before that, for four years as marketing director.

“Andrew has given great service to the organisation and has made a significant and lasting impact during his time in charge. He will leave behind a sound and successful business with strong mutual values. We wish him every success with his future plans.”

Engage Mutual saw premiums fall £3m in the first half of the year following the withdrawal of the Government’s child trust fund scheme.
 
Overall premiums for the first half were £29.8m, down from £32.8m, however the mutual also saw a rise in new annualised premium income from £2.4m to £2.9m driven by increased sales of over 50s life insurance which grew 60%.