About CAPS^®

What you need to know

Our Mission and Vision

Connecting the industry, enabling communication, and enhancing collaboration

The automotive claims and repair sector is a complex yet fascinating industry with a mix of technologies, products, and services all trying to combine to provide a harmonised claims and repair process.

With so many people and businesses involved in processing an insurance claim, the industry is often characterised by an endless cycle of phone calls, emails, and waiting on responses from other industry players. That’s where CAPS^®, the Common Automotive Platform Standard, comes in. CAPS^® makes sure everyone’s on the same page, improving communication at scale whilst defining how data should be shared between the relevant stakeholders.

CAPS^® can integrate with most claims reporting software and improves efficiency for bodyshops, insurance companies, and all connected parties by cutting down on wasted time caused by manual communication methods. Our goal? To get the entire industry connected digitally, working with industry partners to both define and work together on better ways of communicating between stakeholders to the benefit of all involved.

Bridging a Gap

Connecting the automotive claims and repair sector

CAPS^® was conceived with a visionary purpose: to bridge the fragmented world of automotive claims and repairs. The journey began with a simple observation – the industry needed a better way to share data and exchange information. Businesses across the UK, from bodyshops to parts suppliers, were tangled in a web of inefficiency. Recognising this gap, CAPS^® emerged as a pioneering solution designed to streamline communication and data flow across the industry.

Since its inception, CAPS^® has evolved into a vital cog in the automotive claims and repair ecosystem. Its platform, renowned for its real-time data-sharing capabilities, has revolutionised how stakeholders interact and collaborate. With CAPS^®, the industry witnessed a significant reduction in time and costs associated with claims processing and repairs. The platform’s seamless integration with a wide array of claims reporting software is synonymous with efficiency and connectivity. Today, CAPS^® stands as a testament to innovation, continually adapting and growing to meet the ever-changing needs of the automotive claims and repair industry in the UK.

The National Advisory Council

The voice of our connected partners

At the heart of CAPS^® lies the National Advisory Council (NAC), a team that voices the challenges and ideas of our connected partners and upholds the clear, unbiased operation of the CAPS^® system. It’s like a roundtable where industry experts from all corners of the UK claims and repair world gather to brainstorm and innovate, with a shared goal of making things better for everyone involved.

This council, made up of 22 members, meets regularly to keep a pulse on the industry’s shifting needs and to pool their expertise for the greater good. Every decision they make is thought through with great care, ensuring it benefits all parties in the long run. It’s this thoughtful approach that keeps the CAPS^® communication framework independent and effective for the entire industry.

Our Key Stakeholders

Meet the members of the National Advisory Council

Our board is like a snapshot of the industry's best – a diverse group of people, each with a wealth of experience and know-how in insurance, claims, and repairs. As industry veterans, they're the brains and inspiration for new ideas and the driving force behind CAPS^®.

David Neave
NAC Chairman

David’s 45-year career in insurance has spanned leadership roles at Royal Insurance, RSA, and Co-operative Insurance, where he served as managing director and later CEO. Since retiring from executive life in 2013, he has dedicated his expertise to board-level roles, including seven years as a non-executive director at LVFS, where he chaired the general insurance business. Currently, he sits on the board of Direct Line Group, contributing to the audit and risk committees. With deep-rooted industry knowledge, David continues to shape the future of insurance governance and strategy.

Chris Yates
Vice Chairman

Chris has been shaping software solutions for the body repair industry for over two decades. He began as a developer at AutoFlow in 2000, later taking on product training roles that cemented his status as a subject matter expert in bodyshop operations. In 2017, he was appointed managing director, helping establish AutoFlow as a market leader in the UK and Poland. In 2023, Chris joined Entegral as a product manager, quickly advancing to director of product operations, where he now leads global development for Entegral’s bodyshop solutions. With a sharp eye for innovation and deep industry insight, Chris is committed to solving the sector’s most pressing challenges.

Andrew Eade

Andrew’s career is a testament to versatility and industry expertise. Starting as a youth training scheme participant and trained welder, he transitioned into insurance, accumulating experience across leading vehicle manufacturers, accident management, image engineering, salvage disposal, and inspections. His hands-on knowledge of vehicles and insurance, coupled with a sharp analytical mindset, has driven the success of multiple high-profile projects. Now head of [Department/Company], Andrew is a strategic thinker who bridges the gap between operational challenges and innovative solutions, ensuring the industry continues to evolve in a customer-first direction.

Shaun Deverall

Shaun has spent his career in the leasing sector, beginning as a technician at Arval UK in 1989. Over the years, his expertise in supplier management and customer service has made him a trusted industry voice in repair progression. In 2022, he was appointed head of networks at Arval, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s aftermarket performance and strategy. Most recently, Shaun has transformed Arval’s approach to accident management and bodyshop contracts. He is also an active member of the British Vehicle and Rental Leasing Association’s vehicle and fleet management committee, where he contributes to discussions on industry trends and best practices.

Mike Oliver

Mike is the managing director of KC Autos Accident Repair Centres, one of Northwest England’s leading repair groups, with a team of 250 professionals operating across 10 locations. With over 40 years of experience in strategic and operational roles in the insurance and automotive sectors, Mike has held key positions at Esure and Direct Line, building a deep understanding of the industry. Mike fosters a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and outstanding customer service. His passion for unlocking the full potential of people, processes, and technology makes him a key contributor to the National Advisory Council.

David Snudden

David brings over 37 years of experience across body repair and motor insurance to the National Advisory Council. He began his insurance career in motor vehicle engineering at Eagle Star before moving into body repair management at a leading Vauxhall repair centre. Returning to insurance, he became a field motor engineer and has since spent more than 26 years at Gan Minster, Groupama, and now Ageas, where he leads the technical side of the vehicle damage team. A keen industry contributor, David is an active member of Thatcham Research’s engineering technical committee and a regular presence at industry conferences. When he’s not immersed in automotive advancements, he’s a passionate Southampton FC supporter and an avid mountain biker, often found exploring the trails of the Surrey Hills and South Downs.

Richard Tutt
FIMI, DMS

With over 25 years of experience in the automotive repair industry, Richard founded Motofix Group in 1997, growing it from a single site to a network of nine centres across Southeast England. His vision has positioned Motofix as a leader in vehicle repair, achieving recognition from top automotive manufacturers, including JLR, BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, and securing the BSI 10125 Kitemark accreditation. Richard’s leadership is defined by a commitment to quality, innovation, and the professional development of his team, creating a culture where excellence is the standard and every contribution is valued.

Daisy Thomas

Daisy is a supply chain manager at Sabre Insurance Company Limited, focused on driving efficiency and building strong supplier relationships. With a meticulous approach to procurement strategy and customer needs, she has played a key role in optimising Sabre’s supply chain operations. Daisy also serves as Sabre’s data protection officer, ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Her combined expertise in supply chain and data protection aligns perfectly with CAPS’ commitment to security, efficiency, and seamless integration.

Catherine Hulme

With over 30 years in the motor claims industry, Cath has honed her expertise across operations, procurement, supply chain management, transformation, and continuous improvement. As operations director, motor, at Innovation Group, she leads the UK motor division, overseeing accident and claims management, third-party intervention, engineering, network management, and audit teams. Passionate about industry evolution, she champions progress that benefits customers at every stage of their journey. A dedicated mental health advocate, Cath is a well-being supporter for the Insurance Institute of Manchester. She also has served as a Women in Insurance Awards judge for three years, actively promoting the achievements of women in the industry.

Chris Roe

Chris spent 17 years developing leadership and commercial expertise in retail before joining the body repair industry. He became part of LKQ following its 2024 acquisition of five IRIS paint distributors, where he successfully led business integration and restructuring efforts. Now heading LKQ’s strategic key accounts team for the bodyshop channel, Chris is a passionate advocate for change management and professional development. A longstanding National Advisory Council member, he brings valuable insights into the evolving repair landscape.

Richard Steer

Richard has dedicated his career to the body repair industry. His early years at ICI Paints saw him play a key role in launching Aquabase, the world’s first waterborne refinish product. He later expanded his expertise in paint distribution before acquiring JCA Coatings in 2000, growing it into the UK’s largest refinish supplier. After selling the business to LKQ in 2013, Richard took on the role of managing director of LKQ Coatings, where he oversees paint, consumables, and parts sales for UK bodyshops.

Martyn Rowley

Martyn has nearly 45 years of experience in the automotive industry, bringing a wealth of knowledge to his role as executive director of the National Body Repair Association and Vehicle Builders and Repairers Association. A lifelong advocate for repairers, he has strengthened industry collaboration and positioned NBRA/VBRA as a champion for independent shops. Passionate about giving back, Martyn actively raises funds for DEBRA and BEN charities.

Daniel Payne

Dan has spent over 25 years at the intersection of motor insurance, data, and repair. After starting as a software engineer, he pivoted to automotive research at Thatcham Resarch, where he has led teams across software development, IT, product management, and information security. Now chief product and data officer, Dan has spearheaded initiatives like Thatcham’s strategic partnership with LexisNexis and the launch of Vehicle Risk Rating. If you’re curious about how insurers assess emerging vehicle technology risks, Dan is the person to ask.

Nick Sweetman

Nick began his career at Enterprise in 2000 and transitioned into vehicle repair in 2003, overseeing the East England region. He spent over a decade as a group vehicle repair manager, leading operations across three regions — including the company’s largest: London and the South East. His contributions were recognised with two outstanding achievement awards. In 2015, Nick was promoted to oversee vehicle repair and service operations across the UK and Ireland for Enterprise-owned vehicles. Since 2019, he has also led customer repair operations from both a supply chain and network strategy perspective, making him a pivotal figure in driving operational excellence at scale.

Andy Whatmough

Andy has built a reputation as a forward-thinking leader, driving innovation and delivering measurable results during over 20 years in the insurance and claims industry. As the managing director of S&G Response, he has overseen the company’s growth into one of the world’s leading insurance solutions providers. Focused on technology-driven efficiencies and return on investment, Andy works across the supply chain to develop sustainable, customer-centric products and services. He remains at the forefront of innovation and continuous improvement, sitting on multiple steering committees and boards, where he shares insights that help shape the industry. His deep understanding of customer needs and ability to translate them into real-world solutions make him an invaluable asset to the National Advisory Council.

Erika Woolacott

Erika is the managing director of Fix Auto Mid Devon, a family-owned vehicle repair business serving the local community since 1970. Under her leadership, the business has continued to thrive, blending heritage with innovation. Erika brings extensive experience in customer service, business strategy, and operational excellence to the National Advisory Council. She advocates for transparency, collaboration, and sustainable practices in the automotive repair sector. Outside of work, Erika enjoys horse riding with her daughter and caring for animals — including those in need of rehabilitation.

Rob Pugh

Rob discovered his passion for the accident repair sector during an undergraduate internship in 2015. Since 2019, he has worked at Fix Auto UK — the nation’s leading branded car body repair network — holding key roles in strategy and commercial leadership. In his current position as commercial director, Rob is focused on creating a long-term, sustainable future for Fix Auto’s franchise partners. A Bodyshop Magazine 30 Under 30 Rising Star in 2020, Rob brings fresh thinking, sharp strategic acumen, and a deep understanding of evolving customer expectations to the industry.

Mick Jennings

Mick has been a cornerstone of the vehicle recovery industry for more than 37 years. His technical knowledge spans recovery logistics, insurance processes, accident aftercare, and the full motor claims journey — from police and highways to salvage and repair. Since 2009, he has run his own company, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance UK & Europe, where he serves as CEO and sets strategic direction. Mick previously managed a manufacturer-approved bodyshop and has helped deliver insurance solutions via managing general agents. He also champions operator safety as a lead sponsor of the Professional Recovery Operators Safety Executive and remains an influential voice across national recovery groups.

Dawn Marsden

Dawn is head of claims supplier management and engineering services at esure, bringing over 12 years of insurance experience across motor and home supply chains. Before joining esure in 2023, she spent nearly a decade at LV= General Insurance and also held strategic roles outside the sector. Dawn is widely respected for her expertise in repair networks, supplier management, and customer-focused innovation. She is a passionate advocate for sustainability and emerging vehicle technologies, championing environmentally responsible practices that align with the future of claims and repair.

Michael Golding

Michael is the motor network manager at LV= General Insurance, bringing over 37 years of experience in accident repair. After he began as an apprentice panel beater, his career has included roles in estimating, bodyshop management, and insurance engineering. Michael has held leadership positions in engineering and network development, gaining a comprehensive understanding of both sides of the claims process. Known for his passion for the repair sector, he regularly contributes to industry panels and publications. Today, Michael is focused on shaping a resilient and high-performing network that delivers exceptional service for LV= customers.

Frank Delaney

Frank is the country manager for AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes, leading the brand’s strategy across the region. He began his career at an independent bodyshop before joining ICI Paints as a technician, later working in distribution and sales. Frank joined AkzoNobel in 2008 and has held several senior roles, including strategic business manager. With a unique blend of hands-on repair knowledge and corporate leadership, Frank brings a deep, practical understanding of the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

Connecting the Industry

Bringing the industry together one system at a time

No matter your role in the claims and repairs industry – whether you run a bodyshop, work in an insurance company, supply parts, or are involved in another related business – staying connected is key. Without a solid line of communication, you're left in the dark about what others in the sector are doing, and crucial data slips through the cracks, hindering your digital journey.

Since your current system is likely already CAPS^® compatible, you're just one step away from this essential connection. Get in touch with us to activate your CAPS^® link. Don't miss out on the benefits any longer – complete data access leads to happier customers, a more focused team, and a smoother, more efficient business overall.

About CAPS®