’When I was asked to take on this role, I felt a deep sense of pride, having seen first-hand what the campaign has already achieved across the industry,’ says appointee

Insurance United Against Dementia (IUAD) has appointed Marsh McLennan UK chief executive Chris Lay as its new campaign chair.

In his new role, Lay will lead the team through strategic fundraising and awareness-raising initiatives to help end the devastation caused by dementia.

The move comes following approval by the MHRA in late 2024 of two drugs shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

The IUAD said that lasting impact will depend on sustained momentum, investment and industry collaboration.

Lay said:“When I was asked to take on this role, I felt a deep sense of pride, having seen first-hand what the campaign has already achieved across the industry.

”Now is the time for our industry to double down, building on this momentum and continuing to drive meaningful change for the nearly one million people living with dementia in the UK.

“I’m excited and honoured to be part of the IUAD mission.”

Fundraiser

His appointment was announced following the IUAD achieveing its initial £10m fundraising target for its campaign.

Richard Dudley, group chief broking officer at BMS Group and outgoing chair of the IUAD board, said that “reaching the £10m milestone is a hugely proud moment and being part of this campaign has brought me great personal reward”.

He added: ”IUAD is a wonderful example of how the insurance industry can come together to drive real change for people living with dementia – both now and in the future.

”It’s been an honour to chair such a passionate and committed board over the past three and a half years. I want to sincerely thank them and the fantastic team at Alzheimer’s Society – as well as the many colleagues across the industry who’ve united with us. Their passion for building a future free from the devastation of dementia is truly inspiring.”