Chris Jones ushers in new IUA era prioritising integrated risk management and underwriting expertise
The International Underwriting Association (IUA) has welcomed Chris Jones as its new Chief Executive, effectively marking a significant transition in leadership and priorities within the organisation. Officially stepping into the role on May 1, 2025, Jones succeeds Dave Matcham, who retired after a notable tenure. This leadership change comes at a critical juncture for the market, with Jones firmly prioritising the reinforcement of underwriting and claims expertise alongside a reassessment of emerging and systemic risks.
In a recent statement, Jones conveyed his pride in leading the IUA, which is navigating a period of notable growth and influence within the company insurance sector. He expressed his commitment to maintaining the organisation's three strategic priorities: market modernisation, legal and regulatory support, and enhancing underwriting and claims intelligence. Jones pointed out that these areas are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency and aligning with the future regulatory landscape. He stated, "Digitalisation, enhancing operational efficiency and the future regulatory environment remain crucial to our members and services."
One of Jones' initial strategic moves involves reassessing the IUA's approach to emerging and systemic risks. Rather than adhering to a "siloed, class-specific" view, he aims to adopt a more integrated perspective. This shift intends to equip members with tools to better understand and respond to the evolving risks that insurance buyers face, particularly concerning emerging protection gaps. "We will explore a more integrated approach – one that helps our members understand, manage, and respond to the changing nature of risk," Jones explained.
His vision extends beyond traditional frameworks, advocating for greater collaboration and inclusivity in addressing technical issues. He highlighted the importance of engaging diverse voices, particularly from the next generation of market professionals. "I intend that we should expand our member engagement beyond traditional committee structures," Jones remarked, recognising that the current committee base, with over 1,000 participants, is robust but needs innovative ways to deliver value to the wider membership.
Additionally, Jones is determined to shift the culture within the IUA from mere record-keeping to proactive impact creation. He expressed his desire for the organisation to be recognised not just for facilitating discussions but for delivering tangible outcomes. This commitment to driving meaningful change reflects a broader trend in the insurance sector, where organisations are increasingly expected to adapt and respond to fast-evolving challenges.
Further to the emerging risks discourse, the IUA has been actively forming specialised groups, such as a new cyber reinsurance group aimed at addressing the pressing concerns surrounding cyber threats. With the landscape of risks expanding—encompassing cyber warfare, terrorism, and risk accumulation—Jones underscored the urgency for dedicated cyber products to help insurers navigate this complex terrain. This proactive stance aligns with industry expectations that stress the necessity for adaptability in the wake of rapidly advancing technological threats.
Jones brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served as the IUA's Director of Legal, Underwriting, and Claims prior to his appointment as CEO. His extensive background includes overseeing the association's committees across all non-life insurance and reinsurance classes and providing crucial support to member companies in navigating regulatory frameworks.
As the IUA embarks on this new chapter under Jones' leadership, stakeholders can anticipate a renewed focus on technical expertise and a collaborative approach in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the insurance industry. The IUA’s evolution signals its commitment to not only supporting its members but also proactively shaping the future of the market in response to an ever-changing risk landscape.