Argus Group has announced the death of its former chairman, Sheila Nicoll, on July 24, 2024. She served on the Argus board for 15 years and an additional decade as chairman before retiring in 2021.
Alison Hill, the current chief executive of the company, said Nicoll's career and contribution to the insurance and reinsurance industry will always be remembered.
“Ms Nicoll’s success in a tough commercial environment was never at the expense of her empathy and humanity,” Hill said.
“She always cared about people, taking time to see how colleagues were doing and to offer a word of encouragement and support. She led with technical acumen, integrity, and strength, helping to shape the Argus of today, for which we are forever grateful.”
Nicoll graduated from Oxford with a master's in chemistry. Her career lasted more than 40 years in insurance and reinsurance in Bermuda, London, and New York.
The Argus Group said Nicoll exemplified leadership, dedication, and a pioneering spirit. As a woman leader in the financial services industry, her journey and achievements were incredibly inspiring, the company said.
In addition to the Argus Group, Nicoll also served as president of the Bermuda Insurance Institute and as chairman of the Bermuda Maritime Museum while supporting different philanthropic causes.
Argus mentioned how much Nicoll cared for the next generation of financial services professionals. In 2021, the company honored her with the creation of an Argus Group scholarship in her name.
Vincent Darell was the first to receive the Sheila Nicoll Award. He said it was a turning point in his academic and professional journey.
“Sheila’s support and mentorship have been invaluable, and her belief in me has inspired me to strive for excellence,” he said.
“I am deeply grateful to have known her and will always cherish the positive impact she has had on my life.”
Hill added: “Sheila Nicoll was an extraordinary leader whose impact on Argus and the broader financial services industry was profound.
“Her unwavering dedication, integrity, and kindness have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with her.
“We will forever be grateful for her contributions and will continue to honor her legacy through the initiatives she was so passionate about.
“In this time of profound loss, we extend our deepest sympathies to her family. To her husband, Steve Lake, and her sons, John and Andrew.
“We are deeply indebted for all she has done, celebrating her life and the profound impact she has made. Her legacy will continue to inspire us.”
