Fleur Rochester, a Partner at Kennedys law firm, has assumed the role of President at the London Forum of Insurance Lawyers (London FOIL).
The appointment comes at a crucial time, as the industry grapples with a myriad of challenges stemming from geopolitical tensions, global economic uncertainties, regulatory changes, and the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war and the COVID-19 pandemic.
London FOIL, a division of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL), plays a pivotal role in addressing the legal implications and challenges faced by the insurance sector operating in England’s capital.
Rochester, with over two decades of experience advising insurers in London and specialty markets, is poised to lead the legal profession in providing strategic support to insurers navigating these turbulent times.
Rochester takes over from Toby Vallance, Partner at DAC Beachcroft, who led the organisation through a particularly challenging period marked by the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war and the ongoing financial recovery from the pandemic.
The current pressures on the London (re)insurance market are multifaceted, stemming from an uncertain geopolitical, financial, and regulatory landscape.
Rochester brings a wealth of expertise to address these challenges, including issues such as claims inflation, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations, digitisation, and the promotion of diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.
Alexander Penberthy, Partner at Birketts, will serve as Vice-President of London FOIL, working in tandem with Rochester to address the division’s activities and objectives.
In response to her appointment, Rochester expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to be appointed as London FOIL’s president. The London (re)insurance market has a challenging year ahead, which will be influenced by numerous external factors: geopolitical tensions, the general election, ESG initiatives, regulation and digitisation – all of these mean (re)insurers are under more pressure than ever before.”
“As president, I will support London FOIL members in navigating this new territory and finding the best legal solutions to the issues they face. ”
FOIL CEO Laurence Besemer commented on Rochester’s appointment, highlighting her extensive experience and awareness of the pressures facing the London Market.
“She is the perfect candidate to guide the division into 2024,” Besemer noted.
