The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has named Ben Howell as its newest non-executive director, effective Oct. 8.
Howell currently leads Chubb’s general insurance operations in Australia and New Zealand, a role he has held since September 2024. He brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance sector, including significant leadership roles across the Asia-Pacific region.
The ICA’s decision to appoint Howell comes as the industry continues to manage the effects of ongoing inflation and the increasing frequency of severe weather events. These challenges have prompted insurers to review consumer protections and community support measures.
“Ben’s experience across multiple lines of insurance and his time as head of consumer for Chubb Asia-Pacific will be an asset to the board as this important work progresses,” the board said.
The board also recognised the contributions of two outgoing directors, Tara Page and Natasha Fenech.
Page, who joined the ICA board in January 2024, completed her term in July 2025. Fenech, who served for six years, stepped down at the end of September.
Page is general manager and former chief executive of RAA Insurance. Her background spans both insurance and legal sectors, with previous roles including chief governance and risk officer and company secretary at RAA. She has also worked as a partner in a national law firm, focusing on corporate law and mergers and acquisitions.
Page has been active in industry governance, including a six-year term on the Takeovers Panel, and holds qualifications in law, health sciences, finance, and company directorship.
Fenech, who joined the ICA board in 2019, is a non-executive director at AMPCo. During her tenure at the ICA, she held several board and chair positions within Avant Mutual and other financial services entities.
Fenech’s earlier career includes executive roles at Suncorp Group, where she managed both personal and commercial insurance portfolios, as well as leadership positions at SuperConcepts and other organisations. Her expertise covers portfolio management, regulatory relations, and strategic planning.
The ICA board’s current makeup brings together leaders from across the insurance and financial services industries.
The recent changes in board membership are part of the council’s broader strategy to address sector challenges and enhance the resilience of Australian insurers.
The board thanked both Page and Fenech for their service, noting their contributions during periods of regulatory and market change.
As the sector continues to respond to economic and environmental pressures, the ICA board will draw on the varied experience of its members to inform policy and advocacy.
