As the UK insurance market continues to navigate evolving risks, heightened regulatory scrutiny, and intensifying competition, several major insurers and brokers have bolstered their leadership teams with strategic appointments across underwriting, fraud prevention, and specialist product lines.
Kingfisher Insurance Enhances Private Client and Motor Trade Leadership
Kingfisher Insurance has named Richard Miller (pictured, left) as head of private client and specialist motor trade. With more than two decades of experience in broking and advisory roles—including senior positions at Ardonagh Advisory and Clegg Gifford & Co.—Miller will lead efforts to evolve Kingfisher’s specialist product suite. His remit includes identifying new market opportunities and ensuring high service standards for private clients and niche motor trade sectors.
Tokio Marine Kiln Strengthens Life Sciences Underwriting Capability
Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK) has expanded its life sciences division with the appointment of Adele Beresford (pictured, right) as underwriter, reporting to head of life sciences Kirsten Shastri. Beresford joins from CNA Hardy, bringing a background in financial lines underwriting. Her addition underscores TMK’s commitment to serving both emerging and established life sciences companies, as demand continues to grow for specialist expertise in high-risk and innovative sectors.
Aviva Appoints Chief Underwriting Officer for Direct Line Retail
Aviva has named Rachel Purchase, currently director of data and analytics at Admiral, as chief underwriting officer for Direct Line retail. The position—newly created as part of the leadership structure for the combined Aviva and Direct Line UK personal lines business—places Purchase in charge of pricing and underwriting across the Direct Line, Churchill, and Privilege brands. She will report to Stuart Curson, managing director of Direct Line retail, and is set to join in February 2026.
Scott Clayton to Lead Insurance Fraud Bureau
The Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) has appointed Scott Clayton, head of claims fraud at Zurich, as its new chair effective January 1, 2026. Clayton succeeds Karl Helgesen of Intact Insurance, who oversaw significant initiatives including the launch of the Exploration platform and the Forward Together strategy, which expanded industry participation and data-sharing capabilities. A long-standing supporter of the IFB, Clayton will guide the delivery of its five-year strategy, Connected to Protect, with a focus on enhanced intelligence sharing, fraud prevention, and sector-wide collaboration.
