Markerstudy Distribution appoints CEO

Two executives to join Ardonagh Group

Markerstudy Distribution appoints CEO

Insurance News

By Josh Recamara

Emma Rawlinson (pictured) has been promoted to chief executive officer of Markerstudy Distribution, subject to regulatory approval.  

Rawlinson will report directly to Kevin Spencer, chief executive officer of Markerstudy Group.  

Meanwhile, Ian Donaldson and Craig Ball have returned to Ardonagh Group in roles focused on advancing digital and artificial intelligence capabilities across the organisation’s global platforms. They will also oversee commercial collaborations between Markerstudy and segments of Ardonagh.  

“The Atlanta integration programme into Markerstudy Distribution and resulting synergies are well ahead of plan, enabling Ian and Craig to now accept roles with Ardonagh,” Spencer said, commenting on the transition. The merger between Markerstudy and Atlanta Group completed in June last year. 

Under the agreement between Markerstudy and Atlanta, Ardonagh retained a minority equity stake in the combined business.  

Ardonagh Group chief executive officer David Ross noted that this arrangement has fostered a productive relationship between the two organisations. 

“[T]his has laid the foundations for a strong, mutually beneficial relationship that has continued to grow and evolve, leading to a seamless transfer of Ian and Craig back to Ardonagh, where they’ll continue to nurture our relationship with Markerstudy and lead on emerging opportunities,” Ross said.  

Rawlinson, who previously served as Atlanta CEO, is taking on her new responsibilities as part of the company’s long-term strategy. 

“Emma previously led Atlanta as CEO and, as part of our forward planning for this move, she will take charge of the distribution business on the next stage of its growth journey,” Spencer stated. 

Rawlinson joined the insurance sector in 2018 in a senior strategic role at Swinton before becoming chief financial officer. Following Swinton’s acquisition by Ardonagh in 2020, she became CFO at Atlanta before being promoted to CEO in 2021.  

She joined Markerstudy as COO Distribution and was later promoted to chief investment officer prior to her appointment as CEO. 

Reflecting on her new role, Rawlinson said: “The coming together of Markerstudy and Atlanta was a market-shifting monolithic deal. We have been full steam ahead on our integration programme, driving improvements throughout our estate to deliver the best experience and journey for our customers.” 

“I’m relishing this opportunity to return to my previous role as CEO, and I won’t be leaving any stone unturned in our pursuit of growth and volume aspirations,” she added. 

Meanwhile, Donaldson expressed gratitude to his team at Markerstudy during his tenure and assured that he would remain connected with the company during its next phase.  

“I’m ready to return to Ardonagh for my next challenge. The UK has pioneered digital insurance transformation, and I’m energised by the opportunity to work with colleagues across Europe, South America and APAC to share everything we have learned,” Donaldson said. 

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