Julia Graham has been appointed the CEO of Airmic, replacing John Ludlow from 7 April 2021.
Airmic is the largest association for risk management and insurance professionals in the UK. Before stepping into the role, Graham was deputy CEO and technical director of Airmic.
Graham is an influential figure in the captive industry, is a former chair of both Airmic and FERMA, and has 35 years of experience across a range of risk management and insurance roles. She was previously director of risk management and insurance at DLA Piper UK, where she worked for almost 12 years.
Ludlow announced in October last year that he was stepping down as CEO after four years in the role. He plans to spend more time in the West Country and focus on charitable non-executive director roles.
“It is very satisfying to hand over the leadership of Airmic to Julia and the team that together we have built over the last four years,” he said. “Airmic is in great shape and well positioned to embrace the opportunities that the new world offers.
“Airmic has been a joy to lead and develop into a finely tuned and yet agile business that has proven to be resilient and successful even under the stress of recent times.”
Graham thanked Ludlow for his tenure as CEO, saying she was looking forward to working with the “brilliant” people at Airmic.
“I’d like to thank John for his fantastic contribution in building the foundations of Airmic from which to achieve success and rise to these challenges,” Graham said. “I’m looking forward to working with all of our members, partners, other stakeholders – and the brilliant Airmic secretariat and board.”
Tracey Skinner, Airmic’s chair, also congratulated Graham on the appointment.
“Many congratulations to Julia, her dedication and passion for Airmic is very evident in everything that she does,” Skinner said. “I am very much looking forward to working with her as CEO during my remaining period as chair and as I continue to work for the executive thereafter.”
“A huge thank you to John and everything that he has done for Airmic during the last few years. The last year has been extremely challenging and John leaves Airmic in a good shape for Julia to continue with the journey.”
Graham said she was “delighted” to accept the role and to lead Airmic “at probably the most challenging and exciting time” for risk managers.
“Even before the pandemic, organisations were re-evaluating every aspect of their business,” Graham said.
“In 2021 and beyond, organisations and their boards will face an acceleration of challenges and will be compelled to address how they are building resilience and creating sustainable value in a rapidly changing business environment.
“Airmic members are well positioned to act as strategic advisors in this context and Airmic is well positioned to support them.”
