At Miles Smith, we’re committed to helping brokers deliver the right protection for their clients, especially when risks are challenging or difficult to place. With access to Lloyd’s and the London Market, combined with our specialist knowledge, we provide comprehensive solutions that go far beyond surface-level cover.
The following Hedron Network broker stories highlight how our team works in practice: collaborating with brokers to gain access to specialist markets, deliver expert-led solutions, and support stronger client outcomes.
Growing together: How we helped Macbeth Insurance Brokers expand their account by 150%
At last September’s Hedron Horizon event in Reading, Paul Macbeth, CEO, and Ben Butler, Managing Director at Macbeth Insurance Brokers, met with Lee Raikes, Broker Relationship Manager at Miles Smith, to explore potential for collaboration and gain opportunities they couldn’t access alone. Following the event, several members of the Macbeth Commercial team visited our London office to meet key broking team heads. Together, they discussed risk appetites, growth areas, and upcoming new business opportunities.
One of the first was a complex office refurbishment project, requiring multiple Professional Indemnity and Liability policies. Macbeth sent over a risk presentation and proposal form, and while a meeting in London was planned to discuss the risk in detail, the Miles Smith team had already sourced suitable quotations. These were well received and, once reviewed, the risk was placed – taking the enquiry from initial submission to instruction all within a week.
Since then, the account has grown by 150%, with successful placements across Liability, Motor Fleet, Property, and more. Highlights include:
“Hedron introduced us to the right people at Miles Smith, and following this introduction and effort from both sides, this relationship has gone from strength to strength,” said Ben Butler. “I’d encourage any Hedron member to speak to their Broker Relationship Management team at the Broker Forum – it’s proven invaluable and is a great example of how the wider network relationships can benefit Hedron members.”
“This is a great example of what’s possible when we get the chance to work closely with Hedron members. By aligning our expertise with Macbeth’s ambitions, we’ve helped create real opportunities and long-term growth. Supporting brokers in this way is what we’re here to do.” commented Lee Raikes.
Securing specialist cover for Heath Crawford’s pharmaceutical client
Heath Crawford was working with a global pharmaceutical company exporting patented nicotine products for Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs) to the US and worldwide. The client required a comprehensive insurance programme, including Employers’ and Public/Products Liability, D&O, and Product Recall cover.
Having encountered difficulties placing the risk elsewhere, Heath Crawford turned to us at Miles Smith to explore specialist market solutions. Drawing on their expertise placing similar clients, our team carried out a full market exercise and secured multiple quotations for Employers’ and Public/Products Liability with one insurer.
Recognising the client’s need to manage budgeting and cash flow for a six-figure premium, Miles Smith also arranged flexible payment terms. In addition, with the client exporting globally, it became apparent that Product Recall cover was not in place. Leveraging their expertise in this area, our experts sourced several options, which Heath Crawford selected alongside D&O insurance, creating a tailored programme that met all client requirements.
“Miles Smith guided us through a complex market, ensuring we could provide the right cover for our client and gave us confidence as we placed a specialist pharmaceutical risk,” said Oliver Leyens, Managing Director at Heath Crawford. “I’d recommend any Hedron member reach out to the BRMs for expert support, it’s a partnership that makes a real difference.”
Lee Raikes added, “supporting Hedron members like Heath Crawford on complex risks is what makes our role rewarding. By being there when other options haven’t worked, we help brokers place specialist programmes confidently and give their clients the cover they need.”
Every broker challenge is unique, but the goal is the same: securing the right protection for clients when it matters most. That’s where our expertise makes the difference.
Whether it’s access to specialist markets, structuring comprehensive solutions, or navigating complex risks, our experts are here to help.
Catch up with Lee Raikes, Broker Relationship Manager, alongside Barry Gilligan, Group Broker Development Director, and James Leigh, Broker Development Manager, this week at Hedron Forum or connect with our Broker Relations team to see how we can support your next placement.