The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has announced a strategic partnership with innovation education specialists EDII to enhance its flagship New Generation Programme, which develops emerging talent across the insurance and financial planning sectors.
The New Generation Programme, established in 2010, gives up‑and‑coming professionals the opportunity to design and deliver a project or initiative intended to benefit the insurance profession. Cohorts are selected from across general insurance disciplines, including broking, underwriting, claims, and the London Market.
In 2025, the programme is being expanded to include professionals from the broader financial services field through the inclusion of the Personal Finance Society (PFS). The 2025 intake will bring together around 50 participants across multiple cohorts.
The partnership comes at a time when the insurance sector faces rapid digital, regulatory and societal change, making leadership development and innovation increasingly critical.
By bringing in EDII's expertise, the CII aims to equip participants with advanced skills in innovation, project management and strategic thinking, preparing them to lead change and address complex industry challenges.
Through this collaboration, participants will receive structured support to ensure their projects deliver measurable professional value, while also raising the visibility of New Generation initiatives across employers, regulators and wider industry stakeholders. EDII will provide sector-specific learning and facilitation, helping cohorts unlock insights, shape ambitious project ideas and strengthen their capability to drive meaningful transformation across the profession.
Adam Harper (pictured, left), CII director of strategy, advocacy and professional standards, said the partnership represents a significant investment in rising talent, ensuring that their work continues to have long-term impact across the sector.
Meanwhile, Caroline Bedford (pictured, right), CEO of EDII, added that the collaboration provides participants with the tools and frameworks to translate their ideas into tangible outcomes, creating lasting value for both their organisations and the wider industry.
The partnership underlined the CII's commitment to preparing a future-ready workforce and reinforces the importance of innovation and leadership in sustaining the growth and relevance of the insurance and financial planning professions.
