The former managing director of Assurant left the insurance provider in July 2011 after the completion of a strategic review of the Assurant Solutions European business unit.
Payne announced the end of his non-compete clause on Twitter yesterday evening.
He said: “After six months the non-compete clause finishes today! Bring on 2012!!!”
Kevin Duffy, managing director of Mortgage Force, said: “I’ve known Nigel for a while now and he’s one of the good guys. I wish him the best of luck and I’m sure a person of his calibre and background will make him successful wherever he goes.”
Shaun Vickery, managing director of The Select Partnership, added: “I knew him at The Mortgage Business and I saw how good he was with people.
“He has massive respect from people who have worked with him or for him.
“What sets him apart from other people is that he’s always got the time for you and there’s a manner about him where he gets the best out of people.
“When he joined Assurant, it was a brand which 99% of intermediaries did not know but he turned it around into one of the premier provider brands.
“I hope Nigel comes back into our environment. He’s known for success.”
Payne declined to comment.
