London’s IUA Names Jones as Chief Executive, Succeeding Matcham

The International Underwriting Association (IUA), the group representing London companies that provide international and wholesale re/insurance, has named Chris Jones as chief executive, succeeding Dave Matcham.

Jones will formally take up his responsibilities on May 1, 2025 in response to the planned retirement of Matcham who is stepping down after a London market career of 45 years, including 20 years heading the IUA.

Jones is currently the IUA’s director of Legal, Underwriting and Claims with overall responsibility for the work of more than 40 London market committees operated by the association. He also works with member companies on meeting their regulatory and legislative requirements and is a qualified company secretary.

“On behalf of the board and the members represented by the IUA we would like to extend our thanks to Dave for his many years of exceptional service to the London market and his commitment through this transitional phase,” commented Claire McDonald, chair of the IUA and CEO of SCOR Business Solutions.

“In terms of succession, Chris is well known to all on the IUA Board, and we are delighted to be able to fill this role from within the organization. Chris’s current activities have created real value for members, and we look forward to supporting him in his new role,” McDonald said.

Matcham started his insurance career in 1980 with the Institute of London Underwriters, which later merged with another market association to form the IUA. He took over as the organization’s chief executive in 2005 and has served on many London market boards, representing the interests of the IUA and its member companies. Matcham’s positions on the boards of Velonetic and Placing Platform Limited (PPL) will continue for a period of time.

“It has been a privilege to lead the IUA for the past 20 years and I have been fortunate to work with many exceptional and inspiring people across the London market,” Matcham said. “During that time the insurance industry has undergone significant change and the IUA has also adapted in order to help our members meet new challenges. I am pleased to have been able to contribute to the success of our sector and look forward to seeing it continue to thrive.”

Jones said he is proud to be taking on the leadership of the IUA at a pivotal time in its history. “Membership is at record levels and, with an experienced and respected secretariat team we are in a very strong position.”

The IUA represents 79 companies trading in the London insurance market. Its London Company Market Statistics Report shows that overall premium income for its members in 2023 was £48.432 billion. Gross premium written in London totaled £42.995 billion while a further £5.437 billion was identified as written in other locations but overseen by London operations.

Source: International Underwriting Association

Topics London