TLDR: Davies, a leading professional services and technology provider, has promoted Richard Barke to CEO of its Insurance Solutions division. With over two decades of industry experience, Barke will lead the division’s operations and growth strategy, emphasizing technology and innovation. This move is part of Davies’ broader Vision 2030 strategy, which includes significant investment in generative AI and automation.
Davies, a prominent professional services and technology provider catering to the insurance and regulated markets, has announced the promotion of Richard Barke to Chief Executive Officer of its Insurance Solutions division. The appointment, effective August 12, 2025, positions Barke to spearhead the division’s strategic direction and operational oversight.
In his new capacity, Barke will be responsible for managing the division’s day-to-day operations and formulating its growth strategy. A key focus of his role will be to collaborate closely with Davies’ global leadership team to drive continued investment in advanced technology and innovation within the insurance sector. This aligns with Davies’ commitment to enhancing client capabilities across the entire insurance ecosystem.
Barke brings a wealth of experience to his new role, boasting more than 20 years in the industry. Prior to this promotion, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Davies Insurance Solutions and at Asta, a company owned by Davies. His extensive tenure at Asta, spanning nearly 15 years, saw him hold several senior positions, including Executive Director, Finance Director, and Chief Actuary. Earlier in his career, Barke gained valuable experience through roles at AIG, Aspen, and KPMG.
Mark Grocott, CEO of Global Solutions at Davies, expressed strong confidence in Barke’s appointment, stating, “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.”
Barke himself commented on his new challenge, saying, “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.”
This leadership transition also includes the appointment of Steven Crabb as Deputy Chairman – Insurance Solutions. Crabb will concentrate on fostering organic growth, particularly by expanding the division’s geographical footprint across the U.S. and other international markets. His deep industry knowledge and client-centric approach are expected to be instrumental in identifying new opportunities and supporting the team in achieving Davies’ long-term strategic objectives.
The announcement follows another recent key appointment within Davies, with James Ferris named CEO of the captive management division. Ferris will report directly to Barke, focusing on expanding services for captive owners and increasing the division’s presence in new jurisdictions.
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Davies’ strategic moves are part of its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to significantly grow annual global revenues to between £2.5 billion and £3 billion over the next five years. To support these aggressive growth targets, the firm secured £275 million in new credit facilities in May. A significant portion of this funding is earmarked for expanding investment in cutting-edge technologies, including generative AI, automation, and facilitating global mergers and acquisitions, underscoring Davies’ commitment to technological advancement and market expansion.
