The Exeter has announced that its board chair Wallace Dobbin will be retiring from his role in June 2022.

Dobbin, who will step down after the company’s annual general meeting, has spent 17 years with the UK protection and health insurer.

He supported the business’s transition from former chief executive Andy Chapman to current chief executive Isobel Langton.

The firm has begun the process to identify and appoint Dobbin’s successor and senior independent director David Brand is overseeing the recruitment.

The Exeter, formerly Pioneer Friendly Society, is a mutual that offers a range of insurance products including income protection insurance, private medical insurance, cashplans and life insurance.

Commenting on his retirement, The Exeter chair Wallace Dobbin says: “Leading The Exeter has been one of the proudest and most significant achievements of my life, and I feel enormously privileged and honoured to have chaired this great company.

“I know that I am leaving The Exeter in the very capable hands of Isobel Langton, her executive team, and an incredibly strong board. I have absolutely no doubt that the company has a very bright future ahead and that it will continue to provide a first-class service for our members”.

The Exeter chief executive Isobel Langton adds: “Everyone at The Exeter would like to thank Wallace for his dedication and inspiration as chair. We have seen many changes across our business and the wider industry in recent years, and his leadership has been key in making sure we are best placed to serve the future needs of our members and advisers.”