Tributes paid to former Co-op insurance marketing head Paul Hemingway

Before moving to Police Mutual, Hemingway was head of marketing and communications for Co-op’s general insurance arm.

Hemingway had previously held roles at Direct Line and RBS.

Tributes have flooded in for Hemingway on social media.

Carl Shaples, head of sales and marketing at Co-op Insurance, said: “I wanted to pay tribute to Paul Hemingway (Hem). I worked with Paul at the Co-op Bank and after I moved to Police Mutual I pushed him to come and join me…he did and he worked for me for a number of years at Police Mutual.

“He was a great marketer, always professional and always quick to express an opinion…I didn’t always agree with them but we always worked it through to a conclusion and always left the meeting as one! We often talked about ECP consulting (he will know what I mean).

“I was his best man at his wedding and it was obvious how much he was loved by his family…gosh it will be hard for them. He had a mad love for concrete and brutal architecture…crazy Swedish jazz…a bloody boxy chart…that Roadhouse was the best ever film…the need for a P.S on all Direct mail…a nice work tie and a definite view on what dress down in the down in the office meant.

“This virus is a serious business and we must all take care. I hope that Helen is on the mend and my thoughts are with her and his family. Take care Hem.”

Russell Brady, head of group public relations at Co-op Group, said: “Paul was an absolute gent - a true Co-op person who understood what The Co-op was about and what it wasn’t. Those of us who knew and worked with Paul at The Co-op will be shocked by this news. A fantastic and fitting tribute from Carl. Paul RIP.”

Andy Elkington, group sales and marketing director at Police Mutual, added: “Lovely words Carl, that’s Paul to a tee. He will be sadly missed indeed.”

Grant Mitchell, acting chief financial officer, Co-op, said: “Well said Carl. Paul was a great colleague and a lovely man.”