Consultancy The Bridge International is expanding its insurance practice to assist firms navigating a complex and rapidly changing market.

The Bridge said last week it had appointed former IAG executive Ian Edgell to lead a management consulting practice focused on insurance product, pricing and underwriting.

Mr Edgell, who has a background as a chartered accountant, worked at IAG for more than a decade, holding a range of senior roles, primarily across personal lines products including motor, home and compulsory third party. Previously he worked at consultancy AT Kearney.

“The challenges of the past two years have highlighted the need for insurers to adapt and innovate quickly,” The Bridge International Group CFO and Partner Commercial Services Stuart Brown said. “I am extremely excited that we have been able to attract someone of Ian’s calibre to our team.”

The Bridge says the insurance sector is dealing with claims inflation, flow on effects of increased reinsurance costs, regulatory interventions, and pricing promise investigations, which are putting pressure on pricing and affordability. Companies have also found it difficult to find the expertise they need.

The firm describes itself as a non-traditional management consulting team, comprising industry practitioners with extensive experience, including senior leaders, executives, and CEOs. It operates in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and North America.

“I am thrilled to be a part of The Bridge International's experienced team during a time of complex challenges and difficult operating conditions for insurers,” Mr Edgell said.