The Lloyd's Market Association (LMA) has announced its priorities for 2026, with a focus on underwriting, technical expertise, market simplification, and regulatory engagement.
The association's board said it will also be involved in advocacy around the new Lloyd's strategy, which is expected to be announced in the first half of the year.
On underwriting, the LMA said it will work to facilitate the formation and representation of market opinion on emerging trends in underwriting and claims. This will include analysis of leader roles and facilitised business models, as well as continued efforts to increase the number of senior female underwriters.
The association's academy will remain focused on technical skills development at early-talent, foundation, and intermediate levels. The LMA will also promote career pathways in claims and finance to support talent retention across the market.
Digitalisation remains a priority, with ongoing projects including completion of digital Core Data Records and testing of the re-platformed back office being delivered by Velonetic. New initiatives will include partnering with Lloyd's on a strategy for market data and continuing a reporting rationalisation project that began in 2025.
On regulatory matters, the LMA said it will work alongside Lloyd's and the London Market Group to lobby UK and European regulators on competitiveness and simplification objectives. In the US, it will focus on strengthening understanding with regulators in the excess and surplus lines market.
Sheila Cameron (pictured above), chief executive officer of the LMA, said the Lloyd's market continues to evolve and the association's role is to ensure managing agents have a unified voice in shaping its future.
The priorities come as Sean McGovern takes on the role of LMA chair for a three-year term, effective 1 January 2026. McGovern, who succeeds outgoing chair Andrew Brooks, is expected to reinforce the association's engagement with regulators, Lloyd's Corporation, and wider market bodies.
The association has also appointed Matthew Bellamy as underwriting director, reporting to CEO Sheila Cameron. Bellamy joins from Ki Syndicate 1618, where he served as chief underwriting officer and active underwriter.
