British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) chief executive Graeme Trudgill (pictured) took the stage in Manchester on Wednesday for his inaugural BIBA Conference opening address, calling on the industry to work together and innovate for the benefit of customers.
“Nothing moves without insurance,” Trudgill told attendees of the major two-day event. “Planes don’t fly, homes don’t get built, we couldn’t hold this conference. So, it is vital we close this protection gap. So, my call to our industry is to innovate, to cover new risks, not to exclude them.
“There is still much work for us to do to better protect our clients. But that will only be done if we work together. Working together is at the core of why I believe this industry is special. You will do it throughout this week. Through allyships, we can work together for the greater good.”
The CEO, who took the helm 10 months ago, went on to highlight the “great progress” achieved by the trade body with the help of others during the past year. Milestones include the fire safety reinsurance facility and the collective work on reducing the scope of the Financial Conduct Authority Consumer Duty.
Trudgill, a former insurance broker himself, also spent time on expressing his gratitude.
“I want to take the time to thank you all,” he said. “You put your trust in me 10 months ago to take up this role. In all seriousness, your support has been extraordinary. And I am most grateful. Particularly in these challenging times – floods, fires, windstorms, theft, accidents, injuries, deaths, collisions, droughts, subsidence, injured pets, and insuring grain ships from Ukraine.
“These risks are already with us, and insurance brokers are doing an important job, ensuring they are there with both financial and practical support, to help clients through their most challenging times.”
The BIBA chief executive also thanked his team, the 200 members who sit on the association’s boards and committees, and the conference sponsors, exhibitors, and delegates.
Sustaining the optimistic note, Trudgill told attendees: “I honestly feel extremely positive about our future. As I hope you will all see this week, there is so much potential within our sector, within BIBA, and within every one of us.
“Don’t let the doom and gloom of the headlines take away from your ambitions and plans. Together we are so strong; we really can make a difference for the people who need us the most. Together we are making investments, building allyships, and shaping the future. Together we are asking ‘What’s Next?’ Not to create fear, but to identify the challenges and the opportunities. Because, together, we can realise our potential.”
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