New Council Members
21 October 2026We welcome two new council members to the council which enables us to future proof the local institute.
Welcoming Our New Council Members
We are delighted to welcome two new members to the Institute Council, Adam Porter and Jamie Howell. Both bring unique perspectives, professional expertise, and a genuine passion for supporting the insurance community. Their appointments strengthen the Council's commitment to representing a diverse range of experiences and ideas as we continue to support and develop our members.
A Welcome from the President
Adam Porter
"I am delighted to welcome Adam to the Council. His strong relationship-building skills, commercial insight, and passion for professional development will be a tremendous asset to the Institute. Adam's ability to bring people together and identify opportunities for growth aligns perfectly with our ambitions for the future. I look forward to working with him as we continue to enhance the value we provide to our members."
Jamie Howell
"I am equally pleased to welcome Jamie to the Council. His determination, fresh perspective, and commitment to challenging conventional thinking will bring valuable insight to our discussions. Jamie's openness about his experiences and his enthusiasm for encouraging others to get involved embody the inclusive and supportive culture we strive to promote within the Institute."
Meet Our New Council Members
Adam Porter
What skills do you bring to the Council that you are most proud of?
"I am most proud of my ability to build strong relationships and bring people together around common goals. In my role at QBE, I work closely with brokers, underwriters and stakeholders across the business, helping to connect ideas, solve problems and drive growth. I also enjoy using data and insight to identify opportunities and support better decision-making, whilst always keeping customer and member needs at the centre of discussions."
How do you see the Institute evolving over the next few years?
"I believe the Institute has a fantastic opportunity to become even more relevant and accessible to members at all stages of their careers. By increasing engagement through digital channels, creating more networking opportunities, and continuing to support professional development, the Institute can attract the next generation of insurance professionals whilst maintaining the high standards and sense of community that make it so valuable today."
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the Council?
"My advice would be to get involved. Joining the Council is a fantastic opportunity to expand your network, develop new skills and contribute to the future of the local insurance community. You do not need to have all the answers; bringing enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a willingness to contribute can make a real difference."
If you weren't working in insurance, what career would you love to pursue?
"If I wasn't working in insurance, I would likely pursue a career in business development or sports management. I enjoy building relationships, creating growth opportunities, and working with people towards shared objectives. My background in professional sport goes hand in hand with this."
Jamie Howell
What skills do you bring to the Council that you are most proud of?
"My ability to turn challenges into positives and embrace my struggles, such as my autism, to create new methods of thinking. I am also proud of my determination to constantly evolve."
How do you see the Institute evolving over the next few years?
"I hope to see people from a wide range of backgrounds begin to emerge with their different viewpoints and for the Institute to create stronger bonds between different sectors of insurance."
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the Council?
"Go for it! We are our own harshest critics sometimes. I have seen people hold themselves back when I know they could go down so many pathways if they had the courage to open the gate they have put in front of themselves."
If you weren't working in insurance, what career would you love to pursue?
"I have so many hobbies, but I would love to be a musician, a baker or a prop designer in film."
Looking Ahead
We are excited to have Adam and Jamie join the Council and contribute their experience, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives. Their commitment to supporting members and helping shape the future of the Institute will undoubtedly strengthen our work in the years ahead.
Please join us in giving both Adam and Jamie a very warm welcome.
Next
4 November 2026
Darts - Great Success
Members of the Insurance Institute of Stoke-on-Trent enjoyed an evening of friendly competition, networking and camaraderie at this year's Darts Competition, held at Pioneer Darts Corner in Smallthorne