Incoming Zurich CEO named first woman chair of ABI

First woman in its 100-year history

Victoria McKeever
clock • 2 min read

Incoming Zurich Europe, Middle East and Africa chief executive Amanda Blanc has been appointed as the first female chair of the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Blanc (pictured) is the first woman to chair the trade association since it began life as the British Insurance Association more than 100 years ago.  The former CEO of AXA UK and Ireland will officially take up the role in October. She succeeds Aviva UK chief executive Andy Briggs, who will remain on the ABI board as the senior independent director.   Royal London chief executive Phil Loney will become deputy chair, succeeding Direct Line chief executive Paul Geddes, from Direct Line Group, who will also remain on the board. Blanc said: "I'm delighted and honoured to become the nex...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on People

CII leads tributes to Brian Caruth after sudden death

CII leads tributes to Brian Caruth after sudden death

‘Decades of dedicated service to our professions’

Jenna Brown
clock 05 January 2026 • 4 min read
Paula Steele takes consultancy role after four decades with John Lamb Hill Oldridge

Paula Steele takes consultancy role after four decades with John Lamb Hill Oldridge

Started consultant role at JLHO on 1 January

Jenna Brown
clock 05 January 2026 • 2 min read
CII director and PFS board member Gill White retires

CII director and PFS board member Gill White retires

Joined the professional body in 2020

Isabel Baxter
clock 05 January 2026 • 1 min read