BIBA outlines board changes

The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) has announced changes to its main board and various advisory boards, marking a pivotal update in BIBA’s governance structure.

WTW managing director Edward Castles, on May 7, became chair of the international and wholesale brokers’ advisory board (IWBAB), concurrently joining the main BIBA board. He succeeded Marsh’s Ryan Bond, who stepped down after completing his term. Serving as new IWBAB deputy chair is Shepherd Global MD Holly Shepherd, who is joined by Marsh Specialty UK’s Jason Mills as member.

In a parallel shift, Karen Weir of Weir Insurance Brokers, already a main board member, took over as chair of the SME brokers’ advisory board (SMEBAB). She replaced Paul Dickson, who will remain on the main board as chair of BIBA’s financial committee (fincom). Meanwhile, Shona Robertson of H&R Insurance was named deputy chair of SMEBAB while being added to the main board. Now also part of SMEBAB is FSB Insurance Services managing director Katie Freemantle.

Other appointments include Peter Blanc (rejoining), Alistair Fraser, Julie Gibbons, John Warbuton, and Phil Williams to the larger brokers’ advisory board; Jo Stevens and Eddie Ferraro to the insurance brokers’ standards committee; and James Allotey to the networks and MGA advisory board, where Catherine Bell will serve as deputy chair.

Jonathan Evans (pictured), chair of the trade body, commented: “BIBA is incredibly grateful for all the work, time, and commitment that our broker main board and advisory board members put into their roles. This is no small matter for them, but their insight engagement and expertise make a huge difference to us and to our members.

“We have looked at some of our articles of association to ease some of that burden through fewer meetings and also to allow for the position of chair of fincom to be a main board member in its own right. I am delighted that the main board has agreed to a special resolution making these changes and that they recognize the benefits they will bring.”

BIBA chief executive Graeme Trudgill added: “It is fantastic to have someone of Eddy’s stature on our main board [who] will bring a global view and a wealth of experience that is more than welcome. Having Karen lead SMEBAB backed by Shona gives a UK-wide feel to that advisory board and a strong voice for smaller brokers. They both have a long history with BIBA and run successful businesses and will add much to our board.”

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