Cyber insurance specialist CFC has announced the appointment of Jane Poole as its new group chief financial officer.
Poole previously served as group CFO at Direct Line Group, where she played a key role in enhancing profitability, capital strength, and operational resilience. During her tenure, she also oversaw the landmark £3.7 billion acquisition of Direct Line Group by Aviva, strengthening Aviva’s footprint in the UK insurance market.
Her earlier career includes serving as CFO of Aviva’s UK & Ireland General Insurance business, with a focus on growth and capital efficiency, and holding senior leadership positions at RSA Insurance Group, culminating in her role as CFO of its UK & International operations. Poole began her career at PwC as a Chartered Accountant.
At CFC, Poole will lead the company’s financial strategy and performance as it continues to expand globally. Group chief executive Louise O’Shea said Poole’s decision to join reflects the strength of CFC’s business and its future ambitions.
Poole is expected to assume her role later this month, subject to regulatory approval. She will succeed Michael Grist, who is stepping back after nearly 16 years as CFO but will remain with the company as an advisor.
In addition, CFC has confirmed that Nick Line will take on the role of chief underwriting officer in 2026. Line, who has been with Markel for 28 years and has served as CUO since 2018, brings extensive expertise in product innovation, international expansion, and acquisition integration.
His appointment forms part of a wider leadership transition at CFC, aimed at supporting its international growth and strengthening its core business lines.
