Willis Networks, a partnership between Willis Group Holdings, the global insurance broker, and local, independent brokers in the UK, today announced its first network member graduate of its Chartered Management Institute (CMI) accreditation scheme.
Willis Commercial Network (WCN) member Chris Harper, Insurer Relations Director of Berkeley Insurance Group, has successfully completed the CMI Level Seven accreditation through the Willis Networks training programme. He is now a CMI member and intends to continue the programme to become a Chartered Manager, which will significantly enhance Berkeley Insurance Group Ltd, which employs 55 staff. Eight other WCN members are currently taking part in the scheme Including Henshalls Insurance Brokers, Gauntlet Risk Management. K L Plester Insurance Service Limited, Scrutton Bland Ltd and Heartland Ltd with more anticipated to join in 2010.
As part of its ongoing initiative to train and support independent regional brokers, Willis Networks has developed a roster of training programmes dedicated to enhancing the management skills and expertise of its network members. The current courses include an executive development programme and a supervisors course. Last year the WCN aligned and extended these programmes to the CMI qualification to enable network members to combine and develop their practical business experience in conjunction with the theory of the programme to develop their managers.
Anne Hughes, Operations Director, Willis Networks, said, “The training offered by the Willis Commercial Network only serves to further highlight our commitment to helping regional brokers thrive in these difficult times. I congratulate Chris on his achievement and look forward to seeing businesses like Berkeley Insurance Group grow as their managers reap the benefits of the CMI training.”
Chris Harper said, “I am delighted to have finished the first part of this scheme, and am eager to take the next steps towards becoming a Chartered Manager. The Willis Commercial Network has provided a vital stepping stone through the CMI scheme and I am sure that many more will see their businesses enhanced through this service.”
Willis Networks was established in 1999 and is comprised of the Willis Commercial Network, representing brokers placing annual premiums of between £3 million to £25 million, and Willis N2, which represents community brokers with up to £3 million in annual premium.
