LMA launches executive programme for future female underwriting leaders

The Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) has launched an executive programme designed to support more experienced female underwriters in progressing into leadership roles.

Leadership Futures will combine personal development with sponsorship from chief executives across the Lloyd’s market, with senior executives expected to help participants access networks, decision makers and career opportunities.

The programme was unveiled at the Underwriting Talent Summit 2026, a year after the inaugural event identified a need for greater structured support for female underwriters seeking to move into leadership positions.

Sheila Cameron, chief executive at the LMA, said: “Leadership Futures has been specifically designed to address the challenges faced by senior female underwriters as they navigate the transition into executive leadership.

”By sharing the thinking behind the programme at this year’s summit, we hope it will also spark ideas about how organisations can strengthen their internal structures and put meaningful support in place.”

‘Market-level returns’

As part of the initiative, participating chief executives will act as active sponsors and seek to challenge organisational barriers that can restrict progression.

The LMA said the programme would also provide delegates with structured exposure and increased visibility across the market.

Fiona Temple, people, culture and academy director at the LMA, said: “The Underwriting Talent Summit highlights both the strength of female underwriting talent across the market and the systemic barriers that still exist on their journeys to the most senior positions.

“The launch of Leadership Futures focuses on unlocking the potential of existing talent through active sponsorship and ensures the chief executive sponsors themselves see tangible organisational and market-level returns.”