Whitbread Insurance Brokers CEO Stephen Jones has resigned after two years “to pursue other opportunities”.

Director John Paul Whitbread told insuranceNEWS.com.au there is no intention to bring in a direct replacement “in the short to medium term”.

Mr Whitbread will share CEO responsibilities with his sister and fellow director Claire Whitbread.

“We will run it as it used to be run, implementing our values,” he said. “Our way is based on community, and people working as a team – values that have allowed the business to prosper over 37 years.”

As previously reported in insuranceNEWS.com.au, Whitbread has withdrawn staff from its Brisbane office but is recruiting in Melbourne.

“We are looking for about six people,” Mr Whitbread said.

The change in leadership has resulted in two internal promotions. Michael Giansiracusa, who has been with the company 14 years, has assumed the new role of GM Strategic Alliances.

Ben Bowen has become GM Broking. He has been with Whitbread for eight years.

Board Chairman Angela Whitbread says while Mr Jones’ departure is disappointing “it is an appropriate time for us to resume the role of leading our family business into the future”.