Professionalism
Broker networks: Member merits
Brokers often highlight the merits of network structures but is their enthusiasm shared by insurers? Peter Knowles reveals what underwriters really think about the membership model.
Towergate seals first broker deal of 2011
Towergate Insurance has acquired BWA Insurance Services — trading as Beric Webb Associates — for an undisclosed sum, in its first broker deal since 2009.
Bluefin applies for chartered status
Bluefin Group has applied for professional status with the Chartered Insurance Institute, in anticipation of it becoming a "basic requirement" from clients.
View from the top: Together we're stronger
It's always good to reflect back on the Biba conference, given how quickly it goes when you're there.
Sterling signs Aldermanbury Declaration
Sterling Insurance has become the latest company to sign-up to the Aldermanbury Declaration.
Editor's comment: Beware the brain drain
Sometimes it's good to go against the grain — it can signal creativity, innovation and a desire to differentiate. And then there are the times when mirroring market trends undoubtedly brings the best outcome for individuals concerned.
Bent credit hire case faces appeal court hearing for second time
The credit hire legal wrangle involving Aston Villa footballer Darren Bent is set to continue after permission to refer the case back to the Court of Appeal was granted.
View from the top: invest in the long term
"It's tough out there" is probably the most overused phrase of the last year.
Regional review - Cardiff: a sleeping dragon?
Despite being the largest city in Wales, the Cardiff insurance sector faces daunting challenges in the future. Daniel Dunkley finds out how it plans to face them.
Aldermanbury Declaration - one year on: delivering the declaration
The Aldermanbury Declaration was launched a year ago to great fanfare. Joel Turland takes a look at its success in driving professional standards.
Comment - claims: cutting the cost of claims
Introducing non-adversarial means of dispute resolution could be the answer to cutting the cost of claims, empowering qualified professionals and delighting the customer, argues Roger Flaxman.
Career development & CSR: first specialist recruitment firm signs Declaration
AMC Insurance Appointments has signed up to the year-old Aldermanbury Declaration, becoming the first specialist insurance recruitment consultancy to do so.
Interview - Michael Walter & Edward Maddison: Engaging the next generation
Lynn Rouse talks to ASL's Michael Walter and Edward Maddison about expanding horizons, operational expertise and engaging the firm's next generation.
Postbox: competency is crucial
I read the recent article "A focus on training" regarding professionalism in the claims sector with interest and wanted to take the opportunity to comment as it strikes me that a parity of focus doesn't exist between expertise in the property and motor…
Postbox: Time to revisit underwriting essentials
I have worked in underwriting for more than 20 years and, while technology has massively increased the array of tools we have available to underwrite risk, it's frightening to realise how few improvements have been made to the professionalism of our…
Investing in the profession - claims: a focus on training
There has been a lot of talk about professionalism in the claims sector. But while those operating in the field have long been granted access to significant training resources, what about those in the back office? Daniel Dunkley looks at whether things…
CILA to target skills gap with claims qualification
The Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters is set to launch a claims qualification targeting back office claims managers, to fill what it perceives as a skills gap in the market.
View from the top: Time to be more vocal
Simon Cowell would have us believe that Britain's Got Talent. However, studies suggests it's not flocking to the insurance industry. A year ago, the Chartered Insurance Institute published the results of a survey that indicated that 83% of students…
The professionalism push: Video interview with Sandy Scott, CII
Sandy Scott, chief executive of the Chartered Insurance Institute talks to Jonathan Swift about the challenges and opportunities facing the general insurance industry in its quest to embrace professionalism.
Career development & CSR: Ten signs up to Declaration
Broker network Ten Insurance has signed up to the Chartered Insurance Institute's Aldermanbury Declaration.
Career development & CSR: Allianz gains CII chartered status accolade
Allianz Commercial has been granted chartered status for its commitment to ethical conduct and professionalism by the Chartered Insurance Institute.
Comment - Brokers & claims: Claims expertise - the future of broking?
2011 is shaping up to be tough for brokers. John Greenway argues claims expertise is an area ripe for differentiation and the best way to solidify client relationships.
Claims update - Professionalism: Providing peace of mind
The insurance industry sometimes forgets why people buy their products — to be guaranteed a service when they need it. David Bonehill goes back to basics.
Allianz Commercial gains chartered status
The Chartered Insurance Institute has granted Allianz Commercial chartered status for its commitment to ethical conduct and professionalism.