Incoming Aviva managing director of protection Fran Bruce will replace Paul Brencher as leader of the Association of British Insurer’s (ABI) protection board.
Health & Protection asked the ABI last week about Brencher’s (pictured) position as he is departing as Aviva’s managing director of individual protection at the end of the month.
Today the ABI released a statement confirming that Bruce would takeover as chairwoman of the ABI protection board.
Brencher was appointed chairman of the protection board in December, succeeding Dominic Grinstead of MetLife.
The ABI said key priorities for the protection board included working with government to improve employee health and reduce workplace sickness absence; improving transparency, access and consumer trust; and promoting the important role protection products play in supporting the mental, physical and financial health of the UK.
ABI director of policy, long-term savings and protection Yvonne Braun said: “Fran’s established leadership, her ABI experience and her strong customer focus will drive the board’s work in advocating the crucial role of insurance while challenging the industry to improve customer trust.
“I would like to thank Paul for steering the committee’s agenda, and in particular, his tireless efforts to help deliver the ABI’s Mental Health and Insurance Standards and Mental Health training module in partnership with Rightsteps.
“These initiatives have helped the industry take a big step forward in increasing access to insurance. They are also a perfect example of how to partner with others to make improvements for customers.”
Fran Bruce, chairwoman of the ABI protection board added: “The past eighteen months in particular have demonstrated the value of protection insurance for customers and their families, employers, and advisers, and where we as an industry can support them when they need it most.
“The protection board and its members have a crucial role in coming together to achieve this.
“I am looking forward to strengthening my relationship with the ABI after representing Aviva on the long-standing customers’ committee.
“I am keen to bring my knowledge and experience from this area to the protection board, and also working with industry colleagues across the protection market to continue the progress that has been made so far.”