Lifestyle Article - Steve Bridger announced as the new Chair at GRiD

 GRiD provides its members with access to pan-industry claims data, employer research, market experts, networking opportunities, plus up-to-the minute views on government papers and legislative change. GRiD also responds to government consultations that are relevant to the industry.

 Steve Bridger wants to capitalise on this to help drive the agenda to give more people access to workplace protection for when they’re at their most vulnerable. He said: ‘GRiD is in great shape following Lee’s chairmanship and he has secured some great wins. We have a healthy increase in membership, have submitted responses to all relevant government consultations - securing derogations for group risk where needed, harmonised how the ABI and GRiD report their claims statistics, launched a new website, and have had nearly 3,000 passes of the group risk qualification GR1. I’m looking to build on all of this.

 ‘Having worked in protection for 28 years, I’ve seen first-hand the difference group risk protection can make to employees, their dependants and their employers. I want to continue to champion the value that such benefits add to society, benefits which have never been more needed.

 ‘I’ll also be looking specifically for collaboration opportunities that strengthen our voice and our cause. And while we have great representation, there’s strength in numbers, so I’ll be looking to increase our membership. Our current members get great value from our work and we need to be less modest about that.’

 Outgoing chair, Lee Lovett said: ‘It’s been a privilege being GRiD’s chair for the last three years, representing reinsurers, providers and advisers active in the group risk space. We have achieved a lot in this time but there is always more to do and I think Steve will do a great job in taking us to the next level.’