The Insurance Institute of Preston and Blackpool
CII website PFS website

President's Message

I am both humbled and delighted to have been chosen as President of the Insurance Institute of Preston and Blackpool.

It truly feels like coming home — it was this very institute that presented me with my ACII back in 1992.

My ambition as President is to support every one of our members, wherever they may be in their career journey. I want our institute to be as open, inclusive, and welcoming as possible — and I’m fortunate to work alongside a fantastic team that shares this vision.

My own background has always been on the financial side of the profession, and I was proud to be part of the first cohort to be awarded the Chartered Financial Planner designation.

Supporting young people is especially close to my heart. I’m always happy to share my experience and knowledge with the next generation, and as Education Outreach Ambassador for my PFS region, I recently had the wonderful opportunity to return to my old school — more than 30 years on — to deliver financial education workshops.

Many of you will also know that I’ve been a long-time volunteer with the Scouts, which makes it all the more meaningful that my chosen charity for the year is Waddecar Scout Camp. We’re raising funds to help build a new centre that will provide unforgettable experiences for countless young people in the years to come.

Another key focus of my presidency will be helping to raise professionalism across our sector. I’m looking to collaborate with other professional organisations across the region to strengthen our collective impact.

Of course, I’ll also be encouraging more PFS members to get involved with our institute, and I hope to see many of you at our Annual Dinner on 3rd October — it promises to be a fantastic evening.

There’s a great deal happening across the CII at the moment. If you’re interested in learning more about the Professional Map, exam changes, or the evolving Corporate Chartered status, please do reach out.

A heartfelt thank you to Sara Price and the CII for their ongoing support, to my fellow council members, and to @SIPP for the personal support and generous sponsorship of our dinner. We are always looking for additional sponsors — if your company is interested, we’d love to hear from you.