In a Press release, the CII noted that Hunt, who first joined the advisory board of the society in 2019, brings a wealth of underwriting experience and knowledge to the leadership position and is a long-standing advocate of the institute and of the need for professional development and qualifications. Hunt will lead the advisory board, alongside SOUP’s non-executive director Phil Williams of Simply Business, and support its provision of strategic guidance, content, learning and insight to the society’s 11,000 members.
Hunt started her insurance career as an account handler with Willis in 1990, before taking on a claims manager role at Lambert Fenchurch. She then joined RSA in 1998 as senior development underwriter, progressing through liability and property roles before becoming regional manager. Before taking on her current role at RSA in 2018, she served as MD of the Insurance Corporation of the Channel Islands (part of RSA Group).
Hunt replaces David Williams, MD of underwriting & technical services at AXA, in her new role as chair.
Commenting on her appointment, Hunt said she was delighted to take up the opportunity and grateful for the support of her advisory board colleagues. She said that since joining the board in 2019, she had seen SOUP create strong foundations for its members through the provision of regular guidance and insight throughout the COVID-19 crisis.
“I’ll now be focused upon building on that success by developing strategic approaches to some of the biggest issues that we face in our sector such as skills, technology and trust,” she said. “For someone entering the profession now, data analytical skills and understanding new technology are crucial to success. We also need to help customers understand the value of what we are offering and give them the confidence and trust that the insurance industry will support them when the time comes.”
Hunt emphasised the CII’s purpose – to build public trust - and said this must remain at the heart of what the institute does to ensure that customers are well served. Underwriting is a challenging and rewarding career, she said, and SOUP’s members must be provided with all the tools required to navigate the business environment and realise available opportunities.
Sian Fisher, chief executive of the CII, added that the CII’s insurance societies are sector-specific professional communities that provide members with relevant and insightful learning.
“I have no doubt Mandy’s experience and leadership will continue to drive forward SOUP’s growing engagement with the underwriting sector,” she said. “My thanks to David, who has been an excellent chair to the advisory board. I look forward to working with Mandy and the other board members in the years ahead.”
