Canopius appoints new global head of inclusion

Specialty re/insurer Canopius is boosting its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion with the appointment of a dedicated senior executive to elevate its EDI programme.

Lucy Bennett takes up the role of head of EDI with immediate effect and will report to Ceri Royal, head of HR, business partnering and organisational development.

Canopius said Bennett, previously head of diversity and inclusion in Surrey Police, will be responsible for elevating Canopius’ EDI programme as the business works towards the goals set out in its EDI action plan.

“Lucy will also manage Canopius’ relationships with a growing panel of members’ bodies and charities which represent and support different societal groups, including the Business Disability Forum, broadening the specialist network of advisors which help to shape Canopius’ continued progression in the EDI space,” a statement said.

Royal said: “Lucy has been appointed to strengthen Canopius’ approach to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across all our international teams and businesses. This is a global role and a statement of intent of our commitment to consistently improve and embed a culture that ensures that every one of our team members can bring their whole selves to work certain of a wholly welcoming culture in which they can thrive.”

Bennett said: “I have been immensely impressed by Canopius’ commitment to EDI. It is tangible at every level of the business, and I am looking forward to supporting colleagues globally to do even more and to set a new standard for inclusivity and belonging in the workplace across our international office network.”

Prior to working with Surrey Police, Bennett served at Moving Ahead, a social impact organisation specialising in improving workplace diversity and inclusion.

Canopius has underwriting operations in Australia, Bermuda, China, Singapore, the UK and the US. It underwrites through Lloyd’s Syndicate 4444 (managed by Canopius Managing Agents Limited), a US surplus lines insurer, Canopius US Insurance and Canopius Reinsurance, a Bermuda-based Class 4 Insurer.