A future-facing ABI

A future-facing ABI

Board reforms A futurefacing ABI This year we announced reforms to the ABI Board, as part of redoubling the industrys efforts to boost customer trust, enhance reputation and tackle future risks such as climate change A strengthened focus on consumers The appointment of Baroness Nicky Morgan to a new post of independent Chair and Baroness Dianne Hayter as an independent non-executive director (iNED) - bringing fresh external perspectives, enriching diversity of experience and reinforcing strong governance. Creation of a new Board-level Reputation and Customers Committee to provide more focus on good customer outcomes and a greater collective focus on issues proving harmful to the sectors reputation. The appointment of Barry ODwyer (Group CEO, Royal London) and Cristina Nestares (UK CEO of Admiral Group plc) to the new roles of President and Deputy President respectively on the ABI Board. The newly-created President and Deputy President roles will lead for the ABI Board on stakeholder engagement and public-facing industry leadership as well as providing internal leadership among the ABIs members. ABIs new Director General annah Gurga will become the ABIs new Director General, taking up the post in early H 2022. Hannah joins from UK Finance where she is Managing Director, Digital, Technology & Cyber and Chief of Staff, and has previously worked for the London Stock Exchange Group, ICAP and HM Treasury alongside other Government roles. Baroness Nicky Morgan said: The insurance and long-term savings industry is one of the UKs biggest global success stories. There are many challenges and opportunities facing the sector ranging from customer trust to supporting the transition to Net Zero. The ABI has an excellent reputation and Im excited to take on this new role as the ABIs first independent Chair at this crucial time. I would like to offer my thanks to Jon Dye for his leadership of the sector during a challenging time and for a smooth handover of responsibilities. Hannah Gurga said: The ABI is globally recognised as a leading advocate for the insurance and long-term savings industry, and I am committed to building on its reputation to ensure we help members deliver the best outcomes for their customers. The external environment in which were operating is changing rapidly and it is vital that the ABI delivers across issues as varied as climate change, diversity and inclusion, resilience and the digital and data revolution. I look forward to working with members, colleagues, government and regulators to enhance our industrys reputation and impact. Baroness Dianne Hayter said: The ABIs members play a vital role in supporting our economy and providing a financial safety net for families across the UK. Im delighted to take up the role of independent Non-Executive Director and look forward to seeing what more can be done to boost consumer trust. Barry ODwyer said: It is a privilege to have been trusted by colleagues across the industry to take up the position of President and represent the sector on the big challenges we face. Whether it is making our sector more diverse, freeing our opportunities to invest in the future through Solvency II reform, customer reforms to improve trust or leading the race to net zero, we must lift our ambitions and work closely with government and regulators on the challenges ahead. Cristina Nestares said: I am excited to work with Barry, the new independent Chair and ABI Board on the big agenda we have ahead. We must ensure our sector continues to deliver for customers, and is the destination of choice for the brightest and the best talent. We have a lot of work ahead but I cant wait to get started.