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Cyber crime threat grows as sophisticated attacks threaten automotive industry

Posted on by Kate Shakesheff

With retailers relying on customer data, they can place themselves at risk of a cyber attack.  Cyber criminals know the high value of this data, and are becoming more and more sophisticated in their efforts to steal this information.

A cyber attack can be costly to your business both financially and to your reputation.

If your dealership was to suffer a ransomware attack, or any other form of cyber attack, are you confident that you would be able to do the following:

  • Immediately access specialist legal advice to ensure that your regulatory, reporting and notification obligations are fulfilled?
  • Access independent IT specialists to undertake forensic analysis, halt the attack and help you to get back up and running again?
  • Recover any losses of income and/or additional costs incurred as a result of the attack, including reputational damage?
  • Access legal and monetary resources to deal with any third party liability action relating to the attack?

If the answer to any of the above points is “no”, then now may be the time for you to consider the risk transfer solutions which are available to you, such as a thorough assessment of the attacks you may face, training your employees to, for example, recognise phishing emails, and ensuring you have the right cyber insurance policy in place.

 

PIB Motor Trade Practice Group is further strengthened through the acquisition of Simply Insurance Services Ltd

Posted on by Kate Shakesheff

PIB Insurance Brokers (PIB) is pleased to welcome the latest acquisition made by PIB Group.

Simply Insurance Services Ltd has joined the growing family of specialist businesses, in a move that further strengthens PIB’s Motor Trade Practice Group offering to its clients in the automotive sector.

Based in Purfleet, Essex, Simply Insurance has been providing risk solutions for VSME customers since 2000.  The business offers motor trade insurance and has diversified into a multi-product commercial motor insurance provider, arranging insurance for driving tuition and motor fleet.  Non-motor commercial and other policies are also arranged on request for existing motor clients.

Darren Leader, Director for Simply Insurance commented: “This is a very exciting time for Simply Insurance as we become part of a larger group through PIB Group, which offers a strong cultural fit and opportunities for growth. Through PIB our customers can choose from a broader range of products and services while receiving the same high levels of service they are accustomed to. At the same time our people can continue developing through extensive learning resources and career options available. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our fantastic team and clients who have contributed to our success now and into the future.”

PIB Insurance Brokers is part of PIB Group and home to its specialist commercial lines brokers, supported by inhouse claims handling and a risk management.

Ross Barnitt, Regional Development Director, at PIB Insurance Brokers said: “We are delighted to welcome Simply Insurance who have joined PIB Group and will complete our motor offering.  Our Motor Trade Practice Group comprises experts from across the business – from PIB Insurance Brokers, PIB Risk Management and Cooper Solutions – working together to support the automotive industry through providing tailored solutions.  The expertise and knowledge of the team will further enhance our offering to our clients, delivering key sector insight, helping manage existing and emerging risks, and to improving profitability.”

The 40 strong team provides specialist solutions for around 8000 clients nationally via telephone.  This is PIB’s 42nd acquisition to date, and seventh of 2021. More work is happening behind the scenes to secure several more transactions for further expansion in the UK and overseas.

For more information, please contact Ross Barnitt, Regional Development Director.

Telephone: 07522 230 384

Coopers Solutions invests in new talent with the appointment of Sam Smith

Posted on by Kate Shakesheff

We’re really pleased to welcome Sam Smith to our team.

Sam has joined as an Account Manager, focussing on FullCover and FullCompliance.  Sam previously worked for Rybrook BMW in Warwick, starting his career as a weekend receptionist and working his way to a full-time sales role where he gained valuable experience in digital and trade sales.

Having worked with a number of our products, Sam is a great ambassador for sharing how our solutions can benefit customers.

Sam told us: ‘I’ve been made to feel really welcome, and feel as though I’ve joined a family environment where I can really help make a difference.  I’m looking forward to sitting on the other side of the desk and helping our customers use our products efficiently to help them work smarter – especially as retailers have had such a challenging time.’

James Cooper commented: ‘With his strong automotive background, Sam can help us strengthen the way we work with our customers as he has such a great understanding of how our products enable retailers to improves their processes.’

Sam keeps himself busy when he’s away from looking after our customers by walking his dog, and watching and taking part in motorsports.

 

Cooper Solutions appoints Gabriel Noguera as Senior Account Manager

Posted on by Kate Shakesheff

Bringing 20 years of experience in the automotive industry to the FullControl team

Cooper Solutions continues to invest in the quality of its team with the appointment of Gabriel Noguera as Senior Account Manager for its dedicated FullControl team. Gabriel brings over 20 years’ experience in motor dealerships, including BMW, Renault and Audi, offering an invaluable insight into the demands of running a dealership.

During his time at BMW, Gabriel achieved BMW/MINI Business Manager of the Year. This endorsement rubber stamped his experience and knowledge to support Cooper Solutions’ dealer customers in getting the very best from FullControl, including streamlining process management, financial performance and reporting.

FullControl allows managers to maximise profit opportunities from their used car business by delivering timely stock lists that help sales managers manage both the preparation and delivery cycles. FullControl highlights over-age vehicles and provides sale price action history, helping retailers achieve better than budget profit.

Barry Cooper, Managing Director for Cooper Solutions comments, “Gabriel’s outstanding industry expertise will be a real boost to the already successful FullControl team. This appointment underlines our commitment to continually investing in FullControl to maximise its potential and meet the changing needs of our dealer community.”