In this episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating is joined by Rachel Turk, Chief of Market Performance at Lloyd’s of London, for an in-depth discussion on the evolving Lloyd’s market and its growing appeal to MGAs and cover holders.

Rachel explains her role overseeing underwriting performance, delegated authority, exposure management, reinsurance, and claims across the Lloyd’s market. The conversation explores why Lloyd’s has become increasingly attractive to MGAs, how efficiency improvements are narrowing the gap with the company market, and why delegated authority is viewed as a key growth engine.

The episode also covers market cycle expectations, portfolio solutions and facilities, claims inflation, regulatory reform in the UK, and the realities of digital transformation and Blueprint Two. Rachel shares candid insights on why claims are a strategic lever for profitability, why portfolio solutions are a structural shift rather than a passing trend, and what success for Lloyd’s will look like by 2026.

A must-listen for MGA leaders, capacity providers, and anyone involved in the delegated authority ecosystem.

Key Quotes

• “Cover holders are valuable because they provide unrivalled access to niche risks and distribution – our job at Lloyd’s is to get out of the way and make that as efficient as possible.”
• “The quality of underwriting in the MGA space is the highest I’ve ever seen it.”
• “Claims is the only area that can actually add margin back – everything else just slows erosion.”
• “Portfolio solutions are a structural change in the market, not a cyclical trend.”
• “I want Lloyd’s to be judged by what we’ve delivered, not what we’ve said.”

Resources

• https://www.lloyds.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lloyd's-of-london/posts/?feedView=all

About the Guest

Rachel Turk is Chief of Market Performance at Lloyd’s of London, responsible for overseeing underwriting performance across the Lloyd’s market, including delegated authority, exposure management, reinsurance, and claims. Her remit focuses on protecting the strength of the Lloyd’s balance sheet, maintaining capital ratings, and ensuring sustainable performance across the insurance cycle. Rachel is widely recognised for her market insight, pragmatic approach to regulation and efficiency, and her strong advocacy for the strategic importance of claims and delegated authority within the global insurance ecosystem.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-turk-4330046/

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, MGAA CEO Mike Keating sits down with Hannah Gurga, Director General of the Association of British Insurers (ABI), for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of the UK insurance market in 2025. They explore the industry’s resilience in the face of extreme weather and cyber incidents, regulatory cost pressures, changes arising from the latest Government Budget, the importance of improving claims handling, and the future of talent in the sector. Hannah also shares ABI initiatives supporting diversity, skills development, and leadership — and highlights the value MGAs gain from being part of the ABI ecosystem.

Key Quotes

• “Risk is our business. Insurance has a critical role in strengthening the UK’s resilience.”
• “Claims are where the promise of insurance is tested.”
• “We need smart regulation — not deregulation — to deliver better outcomes for consumers and firms.”
• “Purpose runs through the DNA of the insurance industry.”
• “There are very few careers that offer more meaning than insurance.”
• “Ad hoc data requests may be a small cost on paper, but they are hugely disruptive for firms.”

Resources

• The ABI - Home | ABI
• MGAA - Managing General Agents' Association - MGAA

About the Guest

Hannah Gurga leads the ABI, representing the UK’s general insurance and long-term savings industry. Under her leadership, the ABI champions regulatory reform, supports market resilience, drives progress in diversity and inclusion, and promotes innovation across the sector. With experience across Government, financial services and global policy roles, Hannah is a respected voice on insurance market dynamics, regulation, consumer outcomes, and the future skills the industry needs. She is also passionate about purpose-driven careers and broadening entry pathways into insurance.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this special episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating sits down with Jack Harding—Underwriter at Tokio Marine Kiln and Chair of the MGAA Next Generation Committee—to explore how the next wave of talent is shaping the MGA market and wider insurance industry.

Jack reflects on the committee’s evolution, the importance of refreshing membership to keep perspectives current, and the role that MGA leaders and sponsors play in enabling Next Gen initiatives. He also explores how the insurance industry can improve its attractiveness to young talent, shifting the perception from “falling into insurance” to actively choosing a future in it.

Jack offers a first look at plans for 2026, including growth of the mentoring programme, learning and development events, industry collaboration, outreach to schools and universities, and support for early-career professionals in areas like leadership, wellbeing, personal branding and technical knowledge.

Key Quotes

“Our mission is to represent and empower the voices of the next generation across the MGA market.”

“I'd love for insurance to become an industry that people hope to get into — not one they simply fall into.”

“Engagement, development and visibility are the pillars we build everything on.”

“We want people to feel proud to say, ‘I work in insurance,’ and excited about the opportunities ahead.”

“Engagement is the key — don’t hesitate to show up, get involved and reach out.”

Resources

MGAA Next Generation - https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mgaa-next-gen/posts/?feedView=all

MGAA website – https://mgaa.co.uk/committees/next-gen/

Mental Health in Business – https://mhib.co.uk/

About the Guest

Jack Harding is an Underwriter at Tokio Marine Kiln and the Chair of the MGAA Next Generation Committee. With more than a decade of industry experience, Jack is a passionate advocate for empowering early-career professionals and promoting insurance as an exciting and rewarding career path. Through his leadership, the Next Gen Committee continues to expand learning, collaboration and engagement opportunities for emerging talent across the MGA market.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, Mike Keating is joined by Caroline Wagstaff, CEO of the London Market Group (LMG), for a wide-ranging discussion on the health, competitiveness, and future of the London insurance market.

Caroline explains how the LMG acts as the collective voice of brokers, insurers, and Lloyd’s businesses, working with government and regulators to promote the market’s global strength. She reflects on the market’s robust performance, continued international growth, and the importance of maintaining the UK’s competitiveness amid global competition.

A passionate advocate for new talent, Caroline highlights the LMG’s pioneering initiatives to make specialty insurance a destination career for young people. She shares the success of the Lime Street Festival, a vibrant event designed to showcase the industry’s opportunities, and outlines plans to expand entry-level hiring through shared talent pools and apprenticeship programmes.

The conversation also touches on the LMG’s ongoing engagement with regulators to improve proportionality in oversight and the introduction of a new UK captive regime — all part of ensuring that the London Market remains innovative, competitive, and fit for the future.

“Our role is to speak up for the London Market — to make sure we’re fit for the future and recognised for our global contribution.”

“We can’t rest on our laurels. There are people out there who’d like a bit of our lunch.”

“Every year there’s a new generation of 17-year-olds who’ve never heard of insurance — so we have to keep telling our story.”

“You can’t make short-term decisions without understanding the long-term consequences. Hiring young people is an investment in our future.”

Resources

• London Market Group (LMG): www.londonmarketgroup.co.uk
• London Insurance Life: www.londoninsurancelife-lmg.com
• MGAA (Managing General Agents’ Association): www.mgaa.co.uk
• Follow LMG on LinkedIn
• Follow MGAA on LinkedIn and X (Twitter)

About the Guest

Caroline Wagstaff is the Chief Executive Officer of the London Market Group (LMG), which represents the combined interests of brokers, insurers, and Lloyd’s market participants.

A seasoned communicator and industry leader, Caroline is known for her strategic advocacy work on behalf of the London Market — from regulatory engagement and government relations to championing initiatives that attract new and diverse talent into the sector.

She is particularly passionate about positioning the insurance industry as a force for social good and an exciting, long-term career destination for young professionals.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating speaks with newly appointed Ryan Gill, CEO of Bspoke Group, following the company’s acquisition by NFP. Ryan shares how Bspoke will operate “independent but connected” under its new ownership, his outlook on market softening, regulation, diversification, broker partnerships, and the evolving role of AI and automation within MGAs. He also outlines his 12-month vision as CEO — aiming to cement Bspoke as the UK’s leading niche and specialist MGA while empowering his team to thrive.

Key Quotes

• “Independent but connected — that’s how we’ll run under NFP.”
• “We will not chase prices down. Discipline is critical through the cycle.”
• “Diversification isn’t accidental — we built Bspoke that way by design.”
• “A lot of what people call AI is actually just automation. We’re taking a measured, sustainable approach.”
• “AI should remove the noise so our people can focus on higher-value work.”

Resources

• Bspoke Group — https://bspokegroup.com
• MGAA — https://www.mgaa.co.uk
• NFP — https://www.nfp.com

About the Guest — Ryan Gill

Ryan Gill is the CEO of Bspoke Group, a specialist MGA platform operating across niche and non-standard insurance sectors. Appointed following Bspoke’s acquisition by NFP, Ryan leads the group’s strategy of disciplined diversification, market agility, and people-focused innovation. With a commitment to speed, service, and solutions, he is steering Bspoke to become the UK’s leading niche and specialty MGA.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, Mike Keating, speaks with Mike Crane, SME & Specialty Director at AXA UK. They explore AXA’s long-term approach to growth, the role of delegated authority, the importance of culture and partnerships, and how technology is reshaping insurance. Mike shares his insights on navigating challenging market conditions, balancing efficiency with empathy in claims, and the opportunities for MGAs to innovate and diversify.

Key Quotes

• “The culture and passion within AXA are what really set it apart – that’s hard to replicate.”
• “We’re playing for the long term. It’s about choosing the right business, with the right partners, who share our ambitions.”
• “If you compromise on price and quality, you get into a mess very quickly.”
• “AI is already helping us reduce friction in processes, but in claims we must protect the human touch.”
• “Diversification is key – the MGA portfolio should complement, not duplicate, the core business.”
• “Strong partnerships aren’t just about transferring responsibility. It’s also about us becoming a better, more efficient partner.”

Resources

• MGAA – Managing General Agents' Association - MGAA
• AXA UK - AXA Insurance Quotes and Claims | AXA UK

About the Guest

Mike Crane is the SME & Specialty Director at AXA UK, responsible for delegated authority, financial lines, specialty, and SME portfolios. With a career spanning senior roles across the insurance industry, Mike brings deep experience in underwriting, strategy, and leadership. His focus is on building strong, long-term partnerships, maintaining underwriting discipline, and leveraging technology to improve both operational efficiency and customer outcomes.

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating sits down with Kelly Ogley, CEO of Howden Consumer and Local Commercial, to explore the current state and future of broker distribution in the personal lines insurance market. The conversation touches on branch network trends, the role of scale and specialism, MGA-broker partnerships, regulation, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry. Kelly shares her leadership perspective on adapting to ongoing market shifts, innovating for customer needs, and empowering the next generation of women in insurance.

Key Quotes

• “We can't rest on our laurels—we’ve got to be looking for the next innovation.” Kelly Ogley
• “Scale matters, but it’s not everything. Brokers with a real USP and client focus can thrive.” Kelly Ogley
• “Clients want choice. Not everyone wants a fully digital experience.” Kelly Ogley
• “It's okay to be yourself but be your best self with practice. Be authentic and build your network.” Kelly Ogley
• “We’ve got more to do on gender diversity, but the progress and conversations we’re having today wouldn’t have happened when I started.” Kelly Ogley

Resources and References

Howden Group: www.howdengroup.com

About the Guest – Kelly Ogley

Kelly Ogley is the Chief Executive Officer of Howden Consumer and Local Commercial. She leads a wide-ranging portfolio that includes Howden’s personal lines, private client services, and its commercial business via a 117-branch network across the UK. With nearly four decades of experience in insurance, Kelly has held leadership roles across M&A, operations, and strategic transformation. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, Kelly actively mentors young talent and supports initiatives to increase female representation in the industry.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-ogley-135a99107/

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/

In this episode of MGAA Conversations, host Mike Keating sits down with Chris Davies, Group Chief Executive Officer at DRS Bond, to explore the highly specialised world of surety bonds and the niche MGA market. Chris provides a candid and in-depth look at how DRS is responding to a capacity gap in the UK construction and real estate sectors, how macroeconomic and political uncertainties impact the industry, and why attracting mid-career talent is becoming an urgent issue across insurance.

From the post-COVID and Ukraine-war bond capacity squeeze to the regulatory challenges facing MGAs, Chris delivers both strategic insight and actionable commentary. The conversation also touches on the importance of innovation, diversity, and stability as critical ingredients for shaping a bright future for the MGA and surety communities.

Key Quotes

“Surety is a bit of an oddball in insurance — which suits me fine, because I am too.” — Chris Davies

“We're only going to deal with investment-grade providers — that's now the bare minimum in surety.” — Chris Davies

“The biggest burning issue at C-suite level right now is the shrinking talent pool between 30 and 49. We’re all fishing in the same, small pond.” — Chris Davies

“Innovation doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel — sometimes, it’s about doing things differently and better than anyone else.” — Chris Davies

Resources & Mentions

• DRS Bond - www.drsbonds.co.uk
• MGAA – www.mgaa.co.uk

About the Guest: Chris Davies

Chris Davies is the Group CEO of DRS Bond Management, a specialist surety bond MGA focused on construction and real estate SMEs in the UK. With decades of experience in financial services, insurance, and governance, Chris brings a strategic and disciplined approach to underwriting, regulation, and leadership. His career spans executive roles in compliance, corporate governance, and MGA formation.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drschrisdavies/

About the Host:

Mike's extensive expertise in the insurance sector has allowed him to witness and adapt to the dynamic shifts within the industry. Throughout his 40 year career, he has navigated the traditional realms of insurers, brokers, and MGAs (Managing General Agents) across both Commercial and Personal Lines markets.

He has held Executive positions at AXA, Midas, UK General and most recently Insurtech start up Qlaims before becoming Chief Executive Officer at the MGAA in September 2020.

Mike is excited about the new MGAA podcast series, which aims to showcase key figures in the UK insurance industry and beyond, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities that the MGA industry encounters.

Mike's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-keating-230b8424/