Paul Williams, former Thistle Insurance Services Managing Director, is set to join Ripe Thinking Limited as Executive Chairman, subject to regulatory approval. His appointment to this newly formed role comes at a time when the niche insurance specialist is set to embark on an ambitious growth plan.

Colin Whitehead, Ripe Thinking Limited CEO, said: "This is a new era for Ripe Thinking as we look to bring several new online products to the market. Paul is a valuable addition to our team. His knowledge of specialist niche sectors and his considerable experience in the digital landscape will play a crucial role as we look to build on our success to date."

Managing Director, John Woosey commented: "We are a fast paced, entrepreneurial business. His focus will be on accelerating our growth plan by identifying new product opportunities. We have developed in-house, industry-leading capabilities in IT and digital marketing with a proven record of bringing new products to market quickly. In just the last 12 months, we’ve launched three new innovative products for boats, music and drones which are all are performing beyond expectations."

Paul Williams said: "Ripe Thinking is a fast paced, cutting edge, digital business with huge ambition and opportunities to grow. I’m impressed with the technology and digital marketing skills that will allow us to build new products, expand into new niches as well as look at possible bolt-on acquisitions. I will be seeking to accelerate this growth by developing our operating model and use of analytics and data to produce profitable business for our insurer partners. During the coming months we will be working closely with our existing insurers and new potential capacity providers to develop our product innovations in our chosen niches."

In May 2016, Ripe Thinking Limited reported an expected turnover of £9m with EBITDA of circa £2.2m for this year.