The Insurance Institute of Bolton
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President's Message

I’m Kayleigh Penwill, your President for 2025/26.

Stepping into the role of President, I am incredibly excited to lead a dynamic and ambitious team that harnesses great values. I have a continued passion for building strong connections and driving continuous improvement and I trust that this shines through with what me and my team will be delivering to our membership over the course of the next year.  I am a strong advocate for supporting those who remain in education but are curious about a career in our industry, whilst creating inclusive opportunities for individuals of all ages and levels of experience that have already taken the plunge into Financial Services.

A little bit about me…
I have worked for AXA for 11 years now, entering the insurance industry straight after studying Forensic Science at university in Newcastle. As you can imagine, insurance wasn’t part of the career plan, but as like most of us, we fall into it and never look back! I have had the opportunity to take on various claims, risk & governance and relationship management roles across both Commercial and Retail business lines, with my current role being a Strategic Relationship Manager in AXA Retail’s distribution team. Similar to my career at AXA so far, I joined our Council 11 years ago as a young, emerging professional. My loyalty and commitment to my local institute has enabled me to extend my network and gain well-rounded experience in many channels and initiatives. 

I’m not one to do things by halves; not only am I taking on the President role this year, I am learning my new SRM role – oh, and I’m getting married later on this year! Me (the Manc) and Ben (the Scouser) - thank goodness we avoided the football politics as we both support Liverpool - met in Newcastle 14 years ago, live in Newton-Le-Willows and have a barking mad 4 year old Irish Red Setter, Cooper. I am outdoorsy and a foodie – whether it’s travelling further afield to explore new culture and cuisine or driving our VW camper around the UK with a cone of chips in hand! Music is a big part of my life and I have quite an eclectic taste! I am an avid skier (despite my two dodgy knees!), so whilst I enjoy soaking up the sun whenever I can, I am a winter girl through and through. My family and friends are at the heart of everything I do; they keep me grounded, make me happy and are a constant reminder of what truly matters.

I am proud to announce that we will be supporting not one – not two – but THREE wonderful causes this year! 

  • The Insurance Charity : Who offer financial support and practical guidance to current and former insurance professionals in the UK and Ireland.
  • The Jordan Legacy : Who raises awareness, collaborates and educates society with a view to preventing preventable suicides.
  • St Ann’s Hospice : Who aim to meet the unique physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of those with a life-limiting illness through offering specialist palliative care to patients and support for relatives, carers and friends.

We will be looking to raise both awareness and money for these causes at a selection of our upcoming events – Thank You in advance for your generosity! 

The first fundraiser is the Grasmere Ultra. My close friend will be running 142km from my parent’s house in Urmston to Grasmere from 18 July – 20 July 2025, raising money for St Ann’s in memory of my rock – my hero – my Dad.  My story can be found here: Kayleigh Penwill is fundraising for St Ann's Hospice and if you wish to donate, that would be greatly appreciated!

Let’s inject a bit of fun into everything we do!  Some more key dates for the diary:

Calendar Friday 5 September 2025 – Summer Ball

Calendar Thursday 13 November 2025 – Annual Conference : Navigating Change in Insurance

Calendar Friday 6 February 2026 – Annual Dinner

Calendar Thursday 5 March 2026 - Annual Quiz

Further details can be found in the events section and LinkedIn page. Book now to avoid disappointment!

If you are an enthusiastic individual, wanting to make a difference and actively contribute towards shaping the future of our profession, I would love to hear from you, so please reach out! 

I look forwards to the year ahead with you all - let’s make it a good one!

Kayleigh