UnderwriteMe, a technology provider within Pacific Life Re’s portfolio, has announced Andrew Doran (pictured) as its new chief executive officer.
The appointment is effective immediately.
Doran transitions into the role from Pacific Life Re, where he held the position of global chief underwriting officer.
He brings over 20 years of industry experience in insurance and reinsurance, including a five-year stint based in Singapore, where he worked closely with markets across Asia. He will now return to the UK to lead UnderwriteMe.
In his previous role, Doran was actively involved in advancing automated underwriting and claims processes using UnderwriteMe’s platform.
The company has highlighted Doran’s understanding of both operational technology and broader strategic initiatives as important assets in his new role. He succeeds James Tait, who has left the organisation to pursue other opportunities.
Andrew Gill, executive vice president of global protection at Pacific Life Re and chair of UnderwriteMe, said Doran’s background makes him well-positioned to steer the company forward.
“His extensive experience and proven track record in the insurance industry, combined with his deep understanding of our company’s technology and strategic goals, make him the ideal leader to deliver UnderwriteMe’s growth ambitions,” Gill said.
Doran said he is eager to support the company’s insurer and adviser clients globally.
“I look forward to working with the talented team at UnderwriteMe to continue driving innovation and excellence across our offering for both insurers and independent financial advisers globally and to further strengthen our position as a leader in underwriting and claims automation and AI solutions,” he said.
The leadership update coincides with a broader industry conversation on digital transformation.
A new study by ACORD revealed that only 25% of global insurers have implemented end-to-end digital solutions, while over half are still evaluating how to integrate digital tools into their operations. Around 10% report little to no digital progress.
The 2025 edition of the ACORD Insurance Digital Maturity Study assessed digital capabilities among 210 major insurance firms across life, property and casualty, and reinsurance sectors. The report examined how digital maturity affects performance and value generation and emphasised the importance of aligning digital capabilities with business goals.
A supplemental section focusing on artificial intelligence found that AI adoption could cut operational costs by 14.6% for property and casualty insurers, with projected annual savings exceeding $480 billion. For life insurers, AI adoption could yield over $300 billion in annual value, the report said.
Complementing ACORD’s findings, a separate global survey conducted by NTT Data suggested that rapid AI deployment is not being matched by equivalent advances in governance and workforce preparedness.
According to NTT Data’s report, “The AI Responsibility Gap: Why Leadership is the Missing Link,” more than 80% of surveyed executives believe leadership and governance have not kept pace with AI innovations. The survey drew insights from over 2,300 C-suite executives in 34 countries.
While enthusiasm for AI remains strong, respondents identified several challenges, including the absence of formal AI policies in 72% of organisations and a lack of AI-relevant skills among employees in 67% of firms. Additionally, 75% of business leaders indicated that AI efforts may conflict with environmental or sustainability objectives.
