Insurers fear regulation
Ninety five per cent of insurers have identified regulatory risk as the single biggest challenge facing them over the next two years – ahead of operational and financial risk, according to a survey by consultant Moore Stephens.
Willis targets small firms
Willis is to accelerate its effort to grow its business among small companies around the world, the broker said. Willis said it was targeting this segment by "partnering with carriers to develop insurance solutions which are highly tailored to small enterprises".
Ecclesiastical office move
Ecclesiastical is moving its Birmingham underwriting office to new premises in the heart of the city and is planning refurbishments at two of its other regional offices later in the year.
Towergate Open GI deal
The Towergate Partnership signed a development contract with its principal systems provider, Open GI, worth almost £500,000. The contract is for a dedicated team at Open GI's Worcester headquarters to manage the development of Towergate's expanding scheme portfolio and bespoke projects.
Equity acquisition
Equity Insurance Group has acquired the general insurance book of Lincoln broker, O'Halloran & Co. Established for 35 years, the firm is operated by Terence and Linda O'Halloran. They will continue working on its IFA business, while some 900 personal lines and commercial policies will be administered at Equity's Doncaster branch.
P&I club renewals
The London P&I Club said it completed the P&I renewal season on 20 February, having recorded an increase of nearly 3 million gross tonnes in membership during the course of the 2006/07 policy year.
QBE's recruitment drive
QBE has launched a nationwide recruitment programme to find and develop insurance leaders of the future. The recruit-ment drive will target individuals at an early stage in their financial services career. The Leadership Development Programme comprises 10 positions, in underwriting, claims and finance across QBE offices in London, Leeds and Chelmsford and will continue for 18 months.
CSC chairman resigns
Andrew Twambley has resigned as chairman of the Claims Standards Council, the trade body for the claims management sector. In a statement he said: "Due to a change in my own business strategy I feel that I am not able to commit to the role full time."
Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
