Paul Brierley leaves Our Network

Our Network MD Paul Brierley has left the company to pursue other interests, Insurance Age has learnt.

Mr Brierley set up the network in late 2008 with the intention of targeting Broker Direct brokers and members of the Institute of Insurance Brokers (IIB). As reported in Insurance Age (January 2010, p 3) Our Network has since become a joint venture between the IIB and Broker Direct.

Roy Green, CEO of Broker Direct, confirmed Mr Brierley's departure: "Mr Brierley is leaving Broker Direct to pursue other opportunities. He did an excellent job launching the Our Network brand and developing the insurer panel and we wish him well.

"As sometimes happens with senior people we couldn't reconcile the needs of the two parties going forward and agreed on an amicable separation.

"As it is now a joint venture and the IIB chief executive Barbara Bradshaw is on the board we do not need such a high profile role as managing director going forward and we will consider our options at the next board meeting."

Mr Brierley said he was looking closely at a new project and that he intended to stay within the insurance sector.

"I've really enjoyed setting up Our Network and I'm sure it will continue to go from strength to strength. The parting is very amicable and I wish them all the best," he said.

His departure comes only a month after Mr Green insisted that Mr Brierley's role would remain unchanged under the joint venture.