The SimplyBiz Group has appointed the former chief executive of Zurich as a new non-executive director as part of continued growth plans for 2016.

David Etherington has worked in the financial services industry for a number of years, most recently at Zurich where he held numerous positions over nearly a 10 year period. His most recent role was Zurich chief growth officer between 2008-2012.

He has also previously worked for NatWest and UnumProvident in senior management and strategic roles and was instrumental in the launch and growth of software solution company bolero.net.

Mr Etherington is a fellow of several professional bodies including the Chartered Institutes of Financial Services and Marketing and the Institute of Export and has also sat on numerous industry committees.

Ken Davy, chairman of the SimplyBiz Group, said: “David has an illustrious history, most notably as the chief executive of one of the world’s largest insurance providers and will make an excellent addition.

“As the Group continues to grow and evolve, I’m certain that David’s insight and vision will prove very valuable in further developing the services and support we provide to the firms we serve.”

Mr Etherington said: “I’ve worked in partnership with the SimplyBiz Group on many occasions since its inception in 2002 and have long-admired the ethos of the business and the quality of the senior management team. SimplyBiz is a well-run business, operating in exciting markets with real potential for growth and I am very much looking forward to contributing to its ongoing success.”