ABI appoints new independent chair

Baroness Kay Swinburne has been appointed as the new independent chair at the ABI.

The position was created in 2021 to bring fresh perspectives to the trade body and reinforce strong governance.

Baroness Swinburne starts in the role with immediate effect and will hold the position for a period of three years.

She said: “I am delighted to take up the role of ABI chair and look forward to working with the board members, the executive team and the sector more broadly as we build on the strong track record of insurance and long-term savings providers in recent years.

“There are some pressing issues ahead, particularly on consumer-related matters and further supporting the UK’s economic growth. I look forward to steering the board as we seek to find ways to help tackle these challenges.”

Experience

Baroness Swinburne was elected to the European Parliament in 2009 and served as an MEP for 10 years.

After leaving elected office, she became vice chair at KPMG UK’s financial services practice and chair of the EMA Risk and Regulatory Insight Centre.

She entered the House of Lords as a peer and government whip in June 2023 and served as a government minister in DLUHC.

She continues to participate in legislation in the Lords, with a particular interest in FS, fintech, artificial intelligence (AI) and all things science.

Andy Briggs, ABI president and chief executive at Phoenix Group, said: “Her extensive experience across financial services in the UK and in Europe will be a great asset to our industry, especially at such an important time as we work to support the government’s vital growth mission. We look forward to welcoming her to the ABI board.