The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) has announced Caroline Barr as its next chair, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold the role in the organisation’s history. Barr will take over from Jonathan Evans at the close of 2025, a transition confirmed by BIBA CEO Graeme Trudgill during the BIBA Conference 2025.
Barr, a non-executive director at BIBA for the past six years, brings extensive experience in financial services and public policy. She previously served as deputy director at HM Treasury and as a member of the Financial Services Consumer Panel. Currently, she also holds a non-executive director position at BlackRock Life and chairs BIBA’s Access to Insurance Committee, where she champions financial inclusion and consumer advocacy.
In addition to this leadership announcement, BIBA recognised outstanding young talent within the sector by presenting the 2025 Oliver Rose BIBA Young Broker of the Year Award to Samantha Lowry, commercial team leader at Gallagher.
Lowry, who has been instrumental in engaging younger professionals through the formation of the BIBA Young Broker Committee in Northern Ireland, impressed judges with her commitment to continuous professional development and sector leadership.
Graeme Trudgill praised Lowry as a “motivated young broker” with a strong dedication to the industry, reflecting the award’s core values of progress, sector contribution, and potential.
The award, named in memory of Oliver Rose – a respected young broker who passed away in 2023 – acknowledges brokers aged 35 and under for their career growth, industry impact, and ongoing education.
Runners-up for this year’s award included George Faulkner, managing director of Merlin Insurance Brokers, recognised for his entrepreneurial achievements, and Rob Nicholls, regional development director at Everywhen, noted for his leadership and commitment to professional qualifications.
