Callum Beaton (pictured, left) began his term as president of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) on January 1, succeeding Nicola Stacey. Debbie Mitchell (pictured, right) will serve as deputy president for 2026.
The leadership transition comes amid a year marked by efforts to support talent development and professional standards. In 2025, the CII reported a 15% increase in insurance qualification completions.
The institute also partnered with Birmingham City University on a 12‑month pilot aimed at strengthening the talent pipeline into the insurance profession, addressing workforce pressures through structured student exposure to careers in the sector. Additionally, the CII expanded its New Generation Programme through a strategic partnership with EDII to enhance leadership development among emerging professionals.
Beaton’s insurance career began in broking in 1977, followed by underwriting at Lloyd’s. He later spent nearly 20 years in the captive insurance sector, becoming chief executive of a captive management company and deputy chief executive of its parent group. In 2004, Beaton stepped aside from corporate roles and has since worked as an insurance consultant, focusing on captive and cell captive techniques.
“It is an honour to be appointed president of the Chartered Insurance Institute, having held membership with this body for nearing 50 years,” Beaton said. “I look forward to working with Debbie and all our colleagues as, collectively, we work to support our huge and growing membership, as well as the broader professional community in delivering on the CII’s core values.”
Mitchell is a director of Aberdeen-based financial planning firm Atholl Scott Financial Services, where she has worked for 32 years. She previously worked at Bowring Financial Services, part of the Marsh group, and spent five years with Scottish Amicable. Mitchell is a past chair of the North Scotland Region Personal Finance Society and a former engagement member of the CII Board.
“I am very pleased to have been appointed deputy president of the CII, and to offer my support to Callum during his presidency,” Mitchell said. “The CII Group plays a vital role in strengthening and developing the insurance and financial planning sector, and it will be an honour to continue this important work while serving in this role.”
