Ex-Direct Line CFO Jane Poole joins CFC in same role

Cyber specialist CFC has announced the appointment of Jane Poole (pictured above) as its incoming group chief financial officer.

Before joining CFC, Poole was group CFO at Direct Line Group, where she led efforts to improve profitability, capital strength, and operational resilience. She also oversaw the £3.7 billion acquisition of Direct Line Group by Aviva, which expanded Aviva’s presence in the UK insurance market.

Prior to that, Poole served as CFO for Aviva’s UK & Ireland General Insurance business, focusing on growth and capital efficiency. Her earlier experience includes senior roles at RSA Insurance Group, culminating in her appointment as CFO of its UK & International businesses. Poole began her career at PwC as a Chartered Accountant.

In her new role, Poole will oversee CFC’s financial strategy and performance as the company continues its global expansion.

Group chief executive Louise O’Shea noted that Poole’s decision to join CFC reflects the business’s quality and future ambitions.

“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,” O’Shea said.

Poole is expected to join the company later this month, pending regulatory approval. She will succeed Michael Grist, who will step back from daily responsibilities later this year after nearly 16 years in the role but will remain with CFC as an advisor.

Reflecting on his tenure, Grist said, “After nearly 16 years at CFC, I’ve decided that now is the right time to step back from day-to-day responsibilities as group CFO. This business has been the journey of a lifetime, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve built together.” Grist will remain involved with CFC in an advisory capacity as the company moves forward.

In addition to Poole’s appointment, CFC has previously confirmed that Nick Line will join as its next chief underwriting officer in 2026, following the conclusion of his tenure at Markel, where he has worked for 28 years, including as CUO since 2018.

Line’s experience at Markel includes developing new product offerings, expanding into international markets, and integrating acquisitions. His appointment is part of a broader leadership reshuffle at CFC, designed to support the company’s international expansion and long-term growth across its core business lines.

What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.