With geopolitical uncertainty and testing market conditions creating a challenging environment for insurers in 2025, International Underwriting Association (IUA) chief executive Chris Jones said it is vital for members to come together to share expertise, pointing to strong relationships, open communication and a shared sense of purpose as critical.
More than 3,500 individuals are now registered on market committees operated by the association, while around 2,500 people attended its training and education events over the past year.
“During times of geopolitical uncertainty and challenging market conditions, it is important for members to be able to come together and share expertise. Our services are designed to support companies as they strive for growth, incorporating responsible underwriting and providing the claims and risk management services that clients increasingly value,” Jones stated in the annual review.
Jones observed that remaining relevant over the coming years will require widespread adaptation to help firms meet new challenges.
The most important area in evolving its services and continuing to meet members’ expectations, Jones said, is recognising that London, as a global hub, lives or dies by its underwriting and claims expertise.
He continued, “We will, therefore, be furthering our engagement with members to identify and promote technical expertise.
“This may include looking at how to assist firms in managing market cycles, maintaining growth and improving risk management. More than 70% of our registered committee members are engaged in underwriting and claims groups.
“Influencing the future regulatory environment and enhancing operational efficiency are two other strategic priorities for the IUA that will remain important.
“But we must not lose sight of how these other workstreams support the delivery of London’s world-class underwriting and claims services.
“With strong relationships, open communication, and shared purpose, I look forward to continue working for the future success of the London company market.”
Alongside its strategic focus, the IUA has continued to evolve its governance and market engagement.
The association, which represents companies in the London insurance market, appointed Jones as its chief executive in March this year.
More recently, the IUA established a new Chief Underwriting Officers Council for the London company market.
The newly formed group is intended to provide leadership and guidance across the IUA’s underwriting-focused initiatives, while also contributing to research projects and examining the impact of emerging risks—reinforcing the association’s emphasis on technical excellence at a time of increasing complexity for the market.
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