Welcome To the Insurance Institute of Manchester

As we enter our 153rd year in 2026/27, it is a privilege to serve as President of the Insurance Institute of Manchester. I am Emma Ackers, and my career in the insurance industry began in 2005, opening the post at Swinton Insurance. What started as an entry-level temp role has since become a rewarding career shaped by continuous learning, professional development and community.

From those early days, I went on to gain experience at Towergate Insurance Brokers and MCM Insurance Brokers, building technical capability, confidence, and a genuine appreciation for what a rewarding and meaningful profession insurance really is. Over time, my passion for the industry grew beyond my own role and into supporting others. For the past ten years, I’ve worked in apprenticeships and Learning & Development, helping people find their feet, grow in confidence and build sustainable careers, one of the most fulfilling chapters of my professional life. I’m now proud to work at Aviva as a Learning and Development Manager within the Broker Propositions Team, and I’m grateful to Aviva and my line manager, Gillian Brennan, for their continued support.

Insurance has shaped far more than my career. Through this profession, I’ve made lifelong friends, met my husband, and become part of a community that is supportive, generous, and genuinely invested in helping others succeed. The Insurance Institute of Manchester reflects everything I value about our industry, connection, professionalism, development and community, and it’s a real privilege to give back as President.