CII pays tribute to local institutes vice president after passing away last week

The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has announced the death of its vice president for local institutes, Brian Caruth.

Caruth, who passed away last week, served as vice president of local institutes at the CII from October 2023 until the end of 2025, during which time he was a prominent advocate for members’ voices across regional and local networks.

Much of Caruth’s career was closely linked to the Insurance Institute of Northern Ireland, where he was a council member for more than 30 years.

He also served as president of the Northern Ireland institute in 2018 and 2019, with him widely credited for strengthening professional engagement and championing education and development within the general insurance market.

In recognition of his contribution, Caruth received the CII’s Exceptional Service Award in 2022 for services at local, regional and national level. He was subsequently awarded the President’s Award in December 2024.

The CII said Caruth’s “leadership, generosity of spirit and deep understanding of the professions we serve were evident in all he did”, adding that his contribution, professionalism and warmth would be “greatly missed by colleagues and friends alike”.

Market remembers fondly

Callum Beaton, president at the CII, said Caruth had played a pivotal role in broadening engagement beyond London and strengthening regional representation within the professional body.

“Caruth has been a stalwart of everything that the CII Group stands for and, for me personally, he was a delight to meet at any time,” Beaton said.

“Caruth and I first met when he hosted what I believe to be the first Network Conference outside of London in Belfast. It was a spectacular success and paved the way for future events.

“From that day I gained a friend and enjoyed his company and conversation over many years. We will all miss him greatly.”

Industry figures also paid tribute to Caruth’s personal qualities and commitment. Tom McGrath CBE described him as “a great people person” who was always willing to listen, even to opposing views, and noted his tireless energy and dedication to professional and charitable initiatives.

Alan Whittle, researcher and training specialist, said Caruth had been “an absolute gem”, adding that his counsel and good humour would be remembered fondly by many across the profession.

The CII said its thoughts were with Caruth’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him.