Poole to join CFC as new group CFO

CFC has appointed Jane Poole as its new group chief financial officer (CFO), succeeding long-serving CFO Michael Grist who will step back after nearly 16 years.

Poole will join the specialty insurer in September, subject to regulatory approval, and will oversee financial strategy as CFC continues its global growth.

Grist will remain with the business in an advisory role to support the transition, the London market firm said.

Louise O’Shea, CFC’s group chief executive, said Poole’s experience at FTSE 100 insurers made her well-placed to drive the company’s next phase of development.

“Jane brings deep FTSE 100 and general insurance executive experience with a proven ability to lead strategic transformation, drive business performance and build high-performing teams,” she said.

Poole was most recently CFO of Direct Line Group, where she played a central role in its financial turnaround and in the £3.7bn acquisition by Aviva.

She previously served as CFO of Aviva’s UK & Ireland general insurance business, following senior leadership positions at RSA Insurance Group.

Her career began at PwC, where she qualified as a chartered accountant.

“I am delighted to be joining CFC at such a pivotal time in its journey,” said Poole. “CFC is an industry pioneer with a clear growth strategy and a strong commitment to delivering value for customers, partners and investors.”

Grist said stepping back was “the right time” after a 16-year tenure. “This business has been the journey of a lifetime, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve built together,” he added.