The Exeter has appointed James Shepherd (pictured) to its board as a non-executive director, with effect from 2nd February 2026.
Shepherd joins the board following a 37-year executive career spanning Swiss Re and GE Capital.
Over the past 14 years, he has held a number of senior leadership roles, including chief operating officer of Swiss Re’s global reinsurance business, group chief transformation officer, and leader of the global in-force life and health business.
The Exeter said this breadth of expertise will add significant strength to the organisation as it continues to develop its health and life propositions.
Shepherd said: “I am thrilled to join the team at The Exeter, a business that I see as truly trying to close the protection gap by designing products for traditionally underserved customer segments.
“Peter Hubbard and Isobel Langton have set out to expand what they provide for their members, and I look forward to helping them deliver on this ambition.”
Peter Hubbard, chair of The Exeter, added: “It’s a privilege to welcome James to the Board and to The Exeter.
“He brings an exceptional depth of experience across health and protection, combined with his strong track record in governance, operations and transformation initiatives within our sector.
“As a mutual, our long-term focus is on improving outcomes for our members and supporting advisers in closing the protection gap.
“James shares that commitment and it will be a pleasure to work closely with him as a Board member.”
