Direct Commercial Limited (DCL) is delighted to announce that Steve Knights will be joining the company as London Market New Business Underwriter, effective 9 December 2025. He will be based at DCL’s Lime Street office in London and will join the New Business team.
Steve joins from Aioi Nissay Dowa Europe (AND-E) and brings to DCL a strong track record in underwriting and broker engagement, supported by extensive experience across the London and wholesale insurance markets. His appointment reinforces DCL’s commitment to strengthening its wholesale capabilities, complementing the retail momentum established with the hire of Ian White, and ensures the business remains focused on supporting brokers across both retail and wholesale channels.
In his new role, Steve will focus on underwriting new wholesale and London-market risks, working closely with brokers to shape and price business, negotiate terms, and deliver solutions aligned with DCL’s appetite. He will play a key part in growing DCL’s wholesale portfolio while supporting the New Business team to ensure swift placement and strong service for brokers.
This strategic hire reflects DCL’s ambition to strengthen its presence and credentials in the wholesale segment, ensuring brokers have a dedicated and experienced underwriting partner alongside the firm’s retail operations.
Joe Hantson, Deputy CEO of Direct Commercial, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the DCL team. Steve’s deep knowledge of the London market, his underwriting discipline and broker-facing experience make him a perfect fit for our wholesale ambitions. This is a clear signal that while we continue to grow retail, we are equally committed to delivering excellence to brokers operating in the wholesale space.”
On his appointment, Steve Knights commented:
“I am excited to join DCL at a time when the firm is expanding both its retail and wholesale capabilities. I look forward to working with the New Business team in Lime Street to deliver robust, competitive solutions for brokers, and to help DCL build a wholesale offering that truly reflects the demands and standards of London market business.”
DCL looks forward to the contributions Steve will bring, helping deliver an enhanced, dual-channel service offering that supports brokers across both retail and wholesale markets.
Image provided by Direct Commercial Limited
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