CILA snaps up CII chief operating officer as new executive director

The Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters (CILA) has appointed John Bissell as its new executive director.

In a statement released yesterday (3 July 2023), the CILA said Bissell will be responsible for driving forward its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programmes alongside increasing industry engagement and awareness with stakeholders. 

He will also work with the leadership team to enhance the institute’s achievements in qualifications, professional standards and technical knowledge.

Bissell, who will take up the role in September 2023, said that he was joining at a “critical time” for the profession, with the FCA’s Consumer Duty coming into force later this month (31 July 2023).

This sets out a slew of updated regulations and requires firms to review their products and services against a new standard of fairness.

“Loss adjusting continues to respond extremely well to the dynamics of the industry, with the independence that the profession brings to the insurer-customer engagement being ever more important,” Bissell said.

“With the FCA’s Consumer Duty coming into force later this summer, all eyes are on the wider insurance industry and the provision of good outcomes for customers. Loss adjusters are a key part of this puzzle and I see a significant opportunity for CILA to make a real difference.”

Experience

Bissel will join the CILA from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).

He currently serves as its chief operating officer, with the role seeing him take responsibility for finance, technology, business operations, customer services and facilities.

Bissell also held several leadership and board-level roles at Acord, Pro-Global Insurance Solutions, Capita Insurance Services, Miller Insurance Services and Aviva. 

Dr Marc Sweeney, CILA president, said: “Alongside a proven track record in the industry, John’s role at the CII means that he understands the challenges and opportunities facing a membership organisation such as CILA.

“From supporting increased diversity and inclusion within the industry to offering adjusters a clear pathway for training and professional development, CILA has achieved notable successes to date. But, as always, we can do more.”

He added: “We’re aware of the changing world and the critical role that loss adjusting professionals play in the claims process.

“John can help us navigate these challenges and ensure we deliver for our members who want a robust and supportive professional and technical development and a representative voice for the whole profession.”