At a time when being a top executive could never have been tougher, when we usually only read of executive changes when they've been forced to resign, Broadley's departure from Pru comes as something of a refreshing change. And that's saying something for journalist more accustomed to writing bad news.
His successor, Tidjane Thiam, will take over in April 2008, giving a six-month lead in which should make for one of the more sedate handovers in the history UK plc.
Broadley of course is widely respected and there should be no other reason for a move than, well, he fancies a change.
He's been on the board at the Pru for eight years, chaired the very influential Hundred Group of FDs and, may I say, was a very committed judge for the 2006 Accountancy Age Awards (in fact, to be honest, he was one of our best ever - no cosying up intended). He's also made some very strong remarks about auditor competition in the UK.
So, he's picked his moment, no doubt played a major part in picking his own successor, and leaves the Pru with a terrific reputation. How many execs can boast of that?
It remains to be seen what he does next. The press statements give no clue. It may be that he is making himself available for a CEO's job. But I suspect, given his experience and success, he would make a solid gold addition to the non-execs compliment on any board. Need a battle hardened expert who speaks his mind and knows the accounting detail inside out to chair an audit committee? I know of one who might be available.