Acord names new chief executive

Acord has appointed John Kellington as chief executive, marking a return to the standards-setting body where he previously helped develop many of the data frameworks used across the insurance industry.

Kellington joins the organisation from Cincinnati Insurance, where he most recently served as executive vice president and chief information officer.

He has a long-standing connection with Acord, having previously served as senior vice president of standards development, information technology, corporate finance and membership between 2007 and 2010. He also recently served on the organisation’s board of directors.

During his earlier tenure, he played a key role in developing the Acord Reference Architecture, a framework designed to support technology and data standardisation across the insurance sector.

Kellington said: “We are at a pivotal moment for insurance technology and success will depend on how well data moves. Acord is at the center of this, providing the framework and standards that form the foundation.

”I’m honoured to take on this role at Acord, where I will be working with a talented and dedicated community who are making a meaningful difference in the digital future of our industry.”

’Uncompromising view’

In his most recent role at Cincinnati Insurance, he oversaw the transformation of the insurer’s technology operations using an Acord architecture-led model.

Acord said Kellington’s experience combines standards development with practical implementation gained during 16 years as a carrier chief information officer.

Robert Kelly, board chair at Acord and chief executive at Steadfast Group, said: “We are so pleased to welcome him as Acord’s new chief executive.

”He brings an uncompromising view that the insurance ecosystem is underpinned by the combination of technology and standards.”