Cirencester Friendly has promoted Ben Howe to chief operating officer (COO) with the retirement of incumbent Shirley Fell.
Howe (pictured), the current director of strategy and transformation, will succeed Fell from 1 November upon her retirement after six and a half years with the provider.
The mutual praised Fell for having been instrumental in driving strategic change which has resulted in the overhaul of operating models and the successful implementation of a new online platform.
Howe joined Cirencester Friendly in March 2019 and since July 2022 has headed up the strategy and transformation function, working across a range of projects to enhance its efficiency and resilience.
In his role as chairman of Cirencester Friendly’s Consumer Duty Group, he has been focused on delivering improved outcomes for members.
As COO, Howe will be a member of Cirencester Friendly’s board and be responsible for customer operations, business change and transformation, as well as all areas of technology.
Cirencester Friendly also announced the appointment of Joanne Safo as non-executive director.
Safo has nearly two decades of experience in the insurance sector with her career rooted in data, technology and change management, the firm said.
She is the founder and CEO of Lukango, an insurtech focused on making insurance simpler and fairer for small businesses.
Ambitious plans for growth
Fell said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Cirencester Friendly. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the brilliant team here and see many pivotal projects come to fruition.
“I am particularly proud of the culture we have built, based on support, inclusion and respect, making Cirencester a truly great place to work. I am delighted that Ben will be stepping up to take over from me.
“Nurturing internal talent and investing in career development is a cornerstone of our culture. I wish the society every success for the future and I am confident it will continue to go from strength to strength.”
Howe added: “I am both honoured and excited to take on the role of chief operating officer.
“Having worked closely with Shirley for the past few years, I know I am taking over a function in excellent health, and I hope to make the most of the momentum that has been built, ensuring the society continues to deliver excellent service and value to its members.
“Cirencester has ambitious plans for growth, and I’ll relish playing a full role in helping to meet these objectives.”
Heartfelt thanks
CEO Andy Morris said: “I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Shirley for the dedication and enthusiasm she has brought to the society, being a key player in transforming the culture of Cirencester to the vibrant and positive environment we all enjoy today.
“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with her and I know I speak for all our colleagues in wishing her the very best of luck for what will undoubtedly be a busy next chapter.
“Shirley and Ben have worked closely together over recent years, which has ensured a smooth and seamless transition.
“We couldn’t wish for a better successor — Ben has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, a deep understanding of our business, and a strong commitment to delivering for our members.”
Touching on Safo’s appointment, Morris added: “I am delighted to welcome Joanne Safo to our board as a non-executive director, whose expert knowledge and insight reflects our desire to make the most of developments in technology to meet member expectations and achieve our growth ambitions.”