Former Merlin man snubs LAS for Direct Group

Earlier this year, sister title Post reported that Mr Crewe had signed a contract with LAS as operations director and was working through his 12-month notice period.

However, Yorkshire-based Direct Group today confirmed that Mr Crewe has joined as claims business unit director and will also sit on its executive team.

Mr Crewe - who will report to chief executive Derek Coles - will lead a team of 120 people at Elland in Halifax.

He has been charged with building the group's position in the provision of end-to-end claims management in the property market.

Speaking about the appointment, Mr Coles said: "He has a proven track record and his experience and market knowledge will considerably strengthen both our claims proposition and the executive team.

"The appointment of Russell to claims completes the final part of our business unit jigsaw, alongside the senior management team of David Jackson (distribution), Colin Jones (validation) and Stuart Pendleton (strategic partnerships)."

And commenting on his move, Mr Crewe added: "Derek painted a compelling picture of the potential for the Direct Group in general, and the claims unit in particular, as it has grown rapidly over the last two years.

"I am very much looking forward to playing a leading role in moving the business to the next stage of its development."

Meanwhile, Max Dunworth, chief operating officer for LAS confirmed Mr Crewe's about-turn to sister title Post.

He said: "Following further discussions between Russell Crewe and ourselves, Russell will not be joining LAS as previously planned.

"While we are disappointed with this outcome, we wish him the best for the future."

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