LMI Group has appointed Steven Manning as CEO, replacing his father and business founder Allan Manning.

Allan Manning will become Executive Chairman after more than 20 years as MD of the claims management group.

The transition has been in the works since 2011, with Steven Manning appointed a director of the company’s Australian, New Zealand and Singapore operations in 2016.

The handover was planned for two years from now, but Allan Manning says he has been so impressed with his son’s performance, he has offered the position early.

“Steve has spearheaded the company’s international expansion in the past five years and has demonstrated his strong leadership, innovation and strategic vision – all skills that are paramount to the ongoing success of LMI.”

Allan Manning says the change will allow him to focus on education, mentoring, advocacy and technical and claims support, and spend more time on LMI’s charity activities.

He says he will not change his work hours or commitment to LMI Group.