I’m thrilled to sit down with two pivotal figures in the UK insurance distribution sector during a time of significant transition. Chris Haggart has recently taken the helm as Group CEO of The Broker Investment Group (TBIG), bringing his extensive experience from leading Hedron Network. Joining him is Duncan Pagan, the newly appointed CEO of Hedron Network, whose two decades of industry expertise promise to steer the network into its next chapter. Together, we’ll explore their visions for their respective organizations, the strategies driving growth amid market consolidation, and how they plan to support independent brokers in navigating today’s challenges.
What drew you to the role of Group CEO at TBIG, and how did your time at Hedron Network shape your decision to make this move?
I’ve always been passionate about fostering growth and innovation in the insurance space, and TBIG’s clear focus on supporting independent brokers while achieving impressive growth—both organically and through acquisitions—really resonated with me. At Hedron, I had the privilege of working with a vast network of brokers, managing over £1 billion in premiums, which gave me deep insight into the challenges and opportunities they face. That experience made me see the potential at TBIG to build on a strong foundation and drive even greater impact in the market.
How do you plan to sustain and accelerate TBIG’s recent growth as you step into this leadership role?
TBIG has a solid track record, and my goal is to keep that momentum going by focusing on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. I see huge potential in our MGA division to diversify and strengthen our offerings. At the same time, we’ll continue to invest in our core business by empowering our brokers with the tools and resources they need to thrive. It’s about striking a balance—ensuring we grow sustainably while staying true to our mission of supporting independent brokers.
TBIG emphasizes backing independent brokers. Can you paint a picture of what that support looks like on the ground?
Absolutely. Supporting independent brokers means providing them with access to cutting-edge technology, competitive products, and tailored advice to help them compete in a tough market. We’re there to help them navigate regulatory changes, rising costs, and client expectations by offering training, market insights, and operational support. What sets us apart is our commitment to preserving their independence while giving them the backing of a larger group to tackle these challenges head-on.
With consolidation reshaping the UK insurance distribution sector, how do you see TBIG carving out its place in this evolving landscape?
Consolidation is definitely a dominant trend, and TBIG is well-positioned to be a key player. Our strategy of combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions allows us to build scale while maintaining the regional identity of the brokers we bring on board. I believe preserving that independence is still critical—it’s what many brokers value most. The challenge lies in staying agile and competitive against larger, acquisitive groups, but our focus on personalized support and a growing MGA platform gives us a strong edge.
As Dave Clapp transitions to deputy chairman, how do you envision your collaboration shaping TBIG’s strategic direction?
I’m excited to work closely with Dave and our executive chairman. Dave’s new role allows him to focus on high-level strategic initiatives, particularly M&A activity, which complements my focus on day-to-day operations and growth. Together, we’ll identify opportunities to expand our footprint and refine our offerings. His experience and insights will be invaluable as we chart the next phase for TBIG, ensuring we’re aligned on both short-term wins and long-term vision.
Turning to Duncan, congratulations on becoming CEO of Hedron Network. What excites you most about leading this organization into its next chapter?
Thank you! I’m genuinely thrilled to take on this role. Hedron Network represents an incredible community of 180 broker members, and I’m eager to build on the strong foundation already in place. My time at Bluefin Networks gave me a deep understanding of network dynamics, and I’m excited to bring that perspective to drive innovation and growth at Hedron. My immediate priority is to connect with our members, understand their needs, and set a clear path forward.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, how do you plan to leverage that expertise to support Hedron’s broker members?
My experience has taught me that brokers face a unique set of challenges, from regulatory pressures to digital transformation. I’ve seen firsthand how networks can be a lifeline by providing shared resources and expertise. At Hedron, I’ll focus on delivering tailored solutions—whether that’s better access to markets, tech tools, or training—to help our members stay competitive. It’s about listening to their concerns and acting as a true partner in their success.
What do you see as the most pressing challenges for network brokers today, and how will Hedron help address them?
Right now, brokers are grappling with a fast-changing market—think digital disruption, client demands for personalized services, and ongoing consolidation pressures. Many are also navigating tighter margins. Hedron’s role is to ease those burdens by offering robust support systems, from tech platforms that streamline operations to advocacy on regulatory issues. We aim to empower our brokers to focus on their clients while we handle the heavy lifting behind the scenes.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of broker networks in the UK insurance sector?
I think broker networks will continue to play a vital role as the industry evolves. They’re uniquely positioned to offer the best of both worlds—local, personalized service through independent brokers, backed by the scale and resources of a larger organization. I foresee networks becoming even more tech-driven, leveraging data and automation to enhance efficiency and client outcomes. At the same time, the human element—trust and relationships—will remain at the heart of what we do. I’m optimistic that networks like Hedron will lead the way in balancing innovation with tradition.
