Former QBE executive Kathryn Lisson will return to the company as a board member next month as the company seeks to increase its technology expertise.

Ms Lisson, who will be a non-executive director, recently retired as a partner at Ernst & Young, where she led the Canadian insurance advisory practice, with responsibility for fintech implementation.

She was previously COO for QBE’s European operations in London, overseeing claims, technology and operation support functions. Earlier in her career she held senior roles at Price Waterhouse and Bank of Montreal in Canada, and at Barclays Bank and Brit Insurance in London.

“I am delighted to welcome Kathy back to QBE,” Chairman Marty Becker said. “The board will benefit from her experience gained through many years in senior executive and advisory roles across the financial services sector, including global insurers and banks in North America and Europe.”

Ms Lisson, who is based in Canada, will chair a newly formed operations and technology committee to support the board in monitoring QBE’s evolving digitisation and IT strategy.

“Kathy’s practical experience in digital technology, cyber security, IT risks and data analytics will be particularly valuable as technology plays an increasingly significant role in shaping QBE’s business and strategic direction,” Mr Becker said.