New board to ensure networks and MGAs are represented within trade body

Biba has launched a new networks and managing general agents’ (MGA) advisory board.

The broker trade body has named Ryan Insurance Group chief executive Tim Ryan as the new board’s chairman.

Ryan will also join Biba’s main board to ensure networks and MGAs are represented within the trade body.

The advisory board will meet on a quarterly basis to provide advice and ensure that the issues affecting networks and MGAs are properly represented to and by the main Biba board and Biba executive.

Ryan said: “I am extremely excited about chairing the networks and MGAs’ advisory board and I look forward to helping Biba deliver on its purpose.

“The segmentation of the representation of the membership in to the new advisory board structures will give focus so that I can make sure that the specific views of alliances, networks and MGAs are properly articulated to and by the main Biba board and executive.

“I am passionate about helping consumers understand the role and benefits of using a broker as well as improving the reputation of our sector and this is a forum where I can help to achieve this.”

The network and MGA advisory board is the third of five planned boards that BIba has launched.

The formation of the boards is part of Biba’s new governance structure and was recommended by Biba’s 2012 strategic review, conducted by advisory firm Deloitte.

Biba chief executive Steve White said: “The new networks and managing general agents’ advisory board provides formal recognition for the first time within Biba of the changing dynamics of distribution in the general insurance market and within our membership.

“We are very pleased to be able to give this segment of our membership a voice and representation of their specific interests. In Tim’s hands they will have a strong voice speaking out for them on the issues affecting their businesses.”

“We have had a fantastic response from members wanting to be involved in Biba’s new governance structure many of whom have not held formal roles within the association before.  This new advisory board is another important step in delivering the recommendations of our Strategic Review and we will continue to drive forward the development of our new structure.”