Wakam UK names Philip Ward Group CFO amid UK growth

Wakam UK has promoted Philip Ward to Group Chief Financial Officer as the insurer reported controlled growth across its UK operations and pointed to stronger partner feedback and industry recognition.

The business said it ended the year with a £400 million UK portfolio and a 197% solvency ratio. It also cited partnerships with A and AA-rated reinsurers.

Wakam UK launched in 2024 and operates as a UK-regulated insurer focused on working with managing general agents, brokers and insurtech firms. The company said premium volumes increased over the past 12 months and it saw rising demand for its technology-led insurance offerings.

Finance leadership

Ward takes on the Group CFO role after working within the business. Wakam UK said he has more than 20 years of financial leadership experience across listed companies and private equity-backed financial services firms.

The company described Ward's background as including work on corporate teams, processes and reporting. It linked that experience to efficiency and resilience.

Wakam UK Chief Executive Mark Christer connected the appointment to the company's plans for the year ahead.

"2025 has been another defining year for Wakam in the UK. Our partnership with Vitesse strengthens the operational backbone our partners rely on and our ongoing work with the MGAA reinforces our commitment to the delegated authority market. With Philip being promoted as Group CFO, we are well placed to build on this momentum in 2026," said Mark Christer, CEO, Wakam UK.

Claims partnership

Wakam UK highlighted a partnership with Vitesse during the period. It said the arrangement gives Wakam UK and its partners access to claims payment infrastructure that it described as faster and more resilient.

The company also said the collaboration strengthens operational efficiency across the value chain. It framed the partnership as part of a wider focus on simplicity, transparency and responsiveness in insurance delivery.

MGA engagement

Wakam UK said it has deepened its engagement with the Managing General Agents' Association. It described its activity as contributing expertise and supporting market discussions.

The company linked its presence in the MGA community to its delegated authority strategy. It also referred to decision-making that it described as fast and accessible for partners.

Awards shortlist

Wakam UK said it was shortlisted at the National Insurance Awards in the Claims Initiative of the Year category. The company said the listing recognised a focus on faster payments, process changes, innovation and investment.

It also said the nomination reflected progress in claims handling and better outcomes for clients.

Partner feedback

Wakam UK reported a Net Promoter Score of +60. It said this placed the business in the excellent category. It also said respondents cited speed, accessibility and responsiveness of its teams.

Ward described the company's position and the outlook for his expanded role.

"Wakam is one of the most forward-thinking insurance organisations in Europe. The past year has shown the powerful potential within the business, and I now look forward to helping guide the company through its next phase of growth and supporting teams across all markets as we continue to build momentum," said Ward.

Wakam UK said it expects further partnership announcements during 2026.