The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has announced the appointment of Zurich’s incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Europe, Middle East & Africa, Amanda Blanc, as Chair, effective October 2018. She becomes the first woman to hold the position of Chair in ABI’s history.
Blanc is due to begin her role at Zurich in Q4 2018, and has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, notably serving as CEO of AXA UK & Ireland, Deputy CEO of Towergate Insurance and Chair of the Insurance Fraud Bureau.
She succeeds Andy Briggs, CEO of Aviva UK, who will remain on the Board as the Senior Independent Director.
Phil Loney, CEO of Royal London, will become Deputy Chair succeeding Paul Geddes, from Direct Line Group, who will also remain on the Board.
Commenting on her appointment, Blanc said, “I’m delighted and honoured to become the next Chair of the ABI and the first woman in this role. I want to thank Andy Briggs and the rest of the Board for giving me this opportunity.”
“I am proud to say I built my career in this industry. In that time I have seen it change dramatically. It is now a more inclusive sector than I can ever remember, but the journey is not over. As Chair I want to continue to drive the excellent work the ABI has already done in this area.
“With so much focus on the role of women in society today, I hope my appointment sends a signal to young women considering a career in insurance that there are no closed shops in this sector.”
Adding, “Insurance plays a vital role in the UK economy and provides peace of mind and practical help to millions of people every year. Rapid changes in the market, the use of technology and data and unprecedented geopolitical changes make it more important than ever that the industry can speak with a clear, single voice through the ABI.”
Briggs said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair over the past two years and I am proud of the progress that the ABI has made in key areas during this time, including growing our membership. The insurance industry has a fundamental role – to help our customers to enjoy a secure and prosperous retirement, and to protect what’s important to them.”
“While there is more to be done, our work on auto enrolment and digital innovation has led to strong growth in pension provision, and our work in general insurance is now leading to fairer premiums for customers.”
“In my successor, Amanda Blanc, the ABI has appointed someone of the highest ability, experience and drive. I am very proud that the ABI has taken a leading role in promoting gender diversity over the last two years, and in appointing the first ever woman to become Chair, this is an important moment for the industry“
Loney added, “I am pleased to have been chosen as Deputy Chair of the ABI and feel that this is an opportunity for continued collaboration as an industry. I look forward to supporting Amanda and ensuring ABI is able to represent all parts of insurance & long-term savings sector.”
Alun Cairns, Secretary of State for Wales, concluded,“Congratulations to Amanda on becoming chair of the ABI. She has held a series of top jobs In insurance and now has an international profile as incoming chief executive of ZURICH Insurance. I’m pleased that Amanda remains proud of her roots in the Rhondda. Wales now has a formidable name in financial services and people like Amanda are helping to drive that trend.”
