13th August 2025
Davies, the leading specialist professional services and technology firm serving insurance and highly regulated markets, has announced the promotion of Richard Barke as CEO of its Insurance Solutions division.
Richard, formerly Chief Financial Officer at Davies-owned Asta, brings over 20 years of industry experience. He has held several senior positions at Asta and previously worked at Aspen and KPMG. In his new role, Richard will be responsible for overseeing operations and shaping the division’s growth strategy, working closely with Davies’ wider global leadership team to advance the firm’s continued investment in technology and innovation.
Davies’ Insurance Solutions team supports Lloyd’s syndicates, MGAs, brokers, insurers, reinsurers and captive owners, assisting with underwriting and broking management, outsourced operations and risk transfer, as well as helping businesses navigate legal, regulatory and operational challenges while building distribution capability.
As part of the transition, Steven Crabb has been appointed Deputy Chairman – Insurance Solutions, where he will focus on driving organic growth across the division, particularly growing its geographical reach across the U.S. and beyond. Steven’s deep industry knowledge and client-first approach will be instrumental in identifying new opportunities and supporting the broader team, as they deliver on Davies’ long-term strategic objectives.
Commenting on the leadership announcements, Mark Grocott, CEO, Global Solutions, Davies, said: “Richard’s extensive understanding of the insurance and financial services markets, along with his experience in complex and evolving business environments, makes him exceptionally well placed to lead us into our next phase of growth and innovation. His appointment also strengthens our enhanced leadership framework, designed to support strategic delivery and advance client capabilities across the insurance ecosystem.
“I also want to recognise the outstanding work Steven Crabb continues to do and his collaboration with Richard will be key, as we pursue new opportunities and continue to deliver tailored solutions to our clients’ needs.”
Richard Barke, CEO – Insurance Solutions, Davies, said: “I’m excited to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Davies. As a team, we have the opportunity to build on the great work already underway, strengthen our capabilities and support our clients in navigating an increasingly complex industry.”
The news follows the recent appointment of James Ferris as CEO of the firm’s captive management division. Reporting to Richard, James will focus on building on and expanding on Davies’ services and capabilities and growing its offering for captive owners in new global domiciles..
If you would like to continue the conversation, get in touch with Chief Executive Officer, Richard Barke at richard.barke@davies-group.com
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