Fintech heavyweight, Laurel Powers-Freeling, has become Chair of Manchester insurtech, Ripe Thinking.
Powers-Freeling is also Chair of Uber UK and Moneybox. Her long CV also includes time as CEO of M&S Money, SVP and UK Country Manager of American Express, and the MD of Lloyds TSB’s Wealth Management Division.
“The Ripe team have an aptitude for innovation, the ability to digitally outpace the market and the tech infrastructure needed to change the future of insurance,” she explained.
“Ripe’s developed a platform that can reach insurance customers in a hyper-targeted, efficient, and appealing way. For me, what is truly compelling about the business is that, while currently a bit modest in its footprint, it now has the formula – and the backing – needed to transform the sector – it’s a fintech primed to scale and win.”
The company received backing from global investment management firm, Aquiline Capital Partners, last year, and is now “gearing up” for its next phase of growth. That will include “game-changing” investments in proprietary technology.
“We’re accelerating towards an exciting phase – with the opportunity to explore new markets and the ambition to become a household name,” added Paul Williams, CEO of Ripe Thinking.
“We welcome our new chair at a pivotal time for Ripe. Laurel has unrivalled tech and financial industry expertise, and a track record of leading companies that are digitally transforming their sector. With Aquiline and Laurel’s strong belief in our potential, alongside significant investment now being deployed to scale up the business, we are on a path to redefine how insurance is done.”
Former Ripe Thinking Chair, Colin Whitehead, is retiring.
“Colin has played an important part in the success, growth and unfaltering ambitions of the business over the past 14 years – and I’m sure he will continue to support Ripe from the side lines,” said John Woosey, Ripe’s founder and Managing Director.
