ARAG UK appoints David Haynes as new CEO 

David Haynes will succeed Tony Buss as head of the insurance and legal services giant. 

ARAG UK has announced the appointment of David Haynes as the new CEO of both ARAG UK Holdings Limited and ARAG Legal Expenses Insurance Company Limited, based in Bristol.  

Haynes (pictured) will officially take over from Tony Buss on April 1, 2025, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the company. 

Haynes, who is a founding member of ARAG UK, has been with the company since its inception in 2006. With extensive experience in the legal expenses insurance industry, he most recently served as Director of ARAG Legal Expenses Insurance Company, overseeing underwriting operations. Since the acquisition of DAS UK in early 2024, Haynes has also played a key role as part of the new leadership team and has been serving on the board of directors for the newly established ARAG entities in the UK. 

Dr. Renko Dirksen, speaker of the board of management of ARAG SE, expressed confidence in Haynes’ appointment, stating, “David Haynes has proven himself through his highly successful work within the leadership team, making him an excellent choice for this new role. We are delighted that he will now lead ARAG’s newly structured UK business and its 900 employees.” 

ARAG UK currently manages premiums totalling €265 million, with Haynes now set to lead the company’s operations in a rapidly evolving market. 

Tony Buss, who has held the role of CEO for 19 years and has been a key figure in the development of ARAG UK since its establishment, will step down in April 2025 upon reaching retirement age. His legacy, which includes building and leading the UK operations, is highly regarded within the company. Dr. Dirksen highlighted Buss’ instrumental role in ARAG’s acquisition of DAS UK, which was successfully completed in early 2024. While Buss will retire from the executive board, he will remain with the company in an advisory capacity, continuing to offer his expertise to the business. 

The transition in leadership is still subject to regulatory approval, with ARAG UK looking forward to a smooth handover as it moves forward under the new leadership. 

Image provided by ARAG UK 

Josie Geistfeld Josie is an editor for Claims Media. She welcomes feedback, comments, and opinion at josie.geistfeld@barkerbrooks.co.uk