Ronnie Brown on new role as DirectAsia’s Singapore general manager, embracing growth beyond comfort zone

Singapore – DirectAsia Insurance has promoted Ronnie Brown to the position of general manager for Singapore. In addition to this new role, he will continue to serve as the group chief technology officer (CTO). 

This transition marks a pivotal moment in both Brown’s career and the company’s strategic direction to drive profitable growth in the region.

In 2023, Brown held the dual roles of chief marketing and distribution officer and group CTO at DirectAsia Insurance. His promotion to Singapore general manager brings a broader scope of responsibilities.

In an exclusive conversation with MARKETECH APAC, he notes that as the new general manager for Singapore, he will be responsible for running the business in the country, encompassing the creation and execution of the strategy to drive profitable growth. On a more practical level, claims, customer services, underwriting, and transformation have been added to his previous sales, distribution, and marketing-focused remit. 

Brown’s background in marketing and digital has provided a solid foundation for his evolving roles, but he acknowledges that the new responsibilities, particularly in areas like claims and underwriting, are outside his comfort zone. 

“Taking on the responsibility for a claims or underwriting team is very much out of my comfort zone, but a challenge I’m really looking forward to!” he enthused.

Juggling dual roles is no small feat, and Brown acknowledged the challenges but also expressed confidence in his ability to manage both areas effectively.

“I have been balancing two roles for a little while now. My previous experience in digital roles has partially helped with the step up to CTO, but there are clearly areas within IT where I’ve had very little involvement,” he said.

Brown highlighted the advantage of DirectAsia being a digitally native company, which has allowed him to stay consistently engaged with the technological aspects of the business.

“Luckily, I have a brilliant team that makes this very easy for me. The key is to recognise where you are strong and where you need to lean on others. Wherever possible, I try to be clear with what’s required and then trust the team’s expertise and knowledge to get us there,” he shared. 

Reflecting on his journey with DirectAsia Insurance, Brown shared what he has found most fulfilling and what excites him about his new leadership role.

“The most exciting aspect of the new position is the expanded scope and learning from my colleagues who are experts in their field and figuring out how I can help them and our customers,” he stated.