UK P&I Club Advances Insurance and Business Strategies for Shipowners

Author

Reads 5.7K

Flag of The UK on Car Hood
Credit: pexels.com, Flag of The UK on Car Hood

The UK P&I Club is a leading provider of insurance and business solutions for shipowners, and they're always looking for ways to improve their services. They've made significant advancements in their insurance strategies, including the introduction of new policies and coverage options.

One example of this is their focus on digitalization, which has streamlined their claims process and made it more efficient for shipowners. This has resulted in faster payouts and reduced administrative burdens.

The UK P&I Club has also expanded its business strategies to include a wider range of services, such as risk management and crew welfare support. This holistic approach helps shipowners manage their risks and maintain a healthy and productive crew.

By providing a comprehensive suite of services, the UK P&I Club is helping shipowners navigate the complexities of the maritime industry with confidence.

History and Milestones

The UK P&I Club has a rich history dating back to 1886 when Thomas Miller took over its management. He's still got a great reputation for running things smoothly.

Windmill Night Club in London
Credit: pexels.com, Windmill Night Club in London

Thomas Miller still manages the club today, which is a testament to their enduring legacy. The company has been at the helm for over 135 years.

In 2018, the UK P&I Club made a strategic move by setting up a subsidiary in Rotterdam, a response to the uncertainty surrounding Brexit. This was a bold step forward for the company.

The club's expertise was put to the test in 2021 when the container ship Ever Given got stuck in the Suez Canal. The UK P&I Club handled the Protection and Indemnity (third party) liabilities insurance coverage for the ship.

The club worked tirelessly to reach an agreement with the Suez Canal Authority, allowing the vessel to sail in June 2021. This was a major milestone for the company.

Leadership and Appointments

The UK P&I Club has recently made some key leadership appointments. Richard Offord has been appointed as the Chief Executive of its Singapore Branch, effective 1 December 2024.

Credit: youtube.com, Identifying and managing risk in maritime operations: What UK P&I Club is doing

He succeeds Yiah Soon Ng, who is retiring after more than 27 years of leadership. This significant change is a testament to the club's commitment to growth and development.

Nicholas Inglessis has been elected as the new Chairman of the UK P&I Club, succeeding outgoing Chairman Alan Olivier, who has held the position since 2013.

Appoints Richard Offord as CEO of Singapore Branch

The UK P&I Club has appointed Richard Offord as the Chief Executive of its Singapore Branch, a move that's effective from 1 December 2024.

Richard Offord takes over from Yiah Soon Ng, who's retiring after more than 27 years of leadership.

The appointment marks a significant change in leadership for the Singapore Branch, and we can expect new perspectives to shape the team's direction.

Yiah Soon Ng's tenure has been a long and distinguished one, spanning over two and a half decades.

Nicholas Inglessis as Chairman

Nicholas Inglessis has been elected as the new Chairman of the UK P&I Club.

Tanker ship navigating under the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge on a clear day.
Credit: pexels.com, Tanker ship navigating under the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge on a clear day.

He succeeds outgoing Chairman Alan Olivier, who held the position since 2013.

Nicholas Inglessis has been a Director of the UK Club for some time, bringing his experience and expertise to the role.

The UK P&I Club is a provider of protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance and other services to the international shipping community.

Claims and Risk Management

The UK P&I Club has a Claims and Risk Management process in place to ensure that claims are handled efficiently and effectively. This process involves a team of experienced claims handlers who work closely with members to resolve claims quickly.

The club's claims process is designed to be fair and transparent, with clear guidelines and procedures in place to ensure that all claims are handled consistently. Members can expect a prompt response to their claim, with a dedicated claims handler assigned to their case.

The UK P&I Club also offers a range of risk management tools and resources to help members mitigate the risk of claims arising in the first place. These include regular safety audits, risk assessments, and training programs to help members identify and manage potential risks.

Tom Starr Joins as Senior Claims Executive

From above view of faceless person holding mobile phone with white screen and green recycle logo above marble surface
Credit: pexels.com, From above view of faceless person holding mobile phone with white screen and green recycle logo above marble surface

Tom Starr has joined the UK P&I Club as a Senior Claims Executive, bringing a wealth of experience to the role.

Starr joins the UK Club from Reed Smith, where he worked as a solicitor and Master Mariner.

He has a strong background in the shipping industry, having practiced law at Reed Smith.

Starr's appointment is a significant addition to the UK Club's claims team, enhancing their ability to handle complex claims.

At Reed Smith, he specialized in maritime law, which will undoubtedly be an asset to his new role.

Creates New Regional Claims Roles

The UK P&I Club has created a new role of Regional Claims Director in each of its main service hubs.

This move is aimed at enhancing global claims capability for members.

R&Q to Assume Occupational Disease Risks

R&Q has reached an agreement with UK P&I Club to take over its occupational disease liabilities.

The transfer is subject to approval by the High Court in London, which is a standard process for such agreements.

Credit: youtube.com, The Importance of Risk Management in Occupational Health and Safety - safety and risk management

UK P&I Club's occupational disease liabilities will be assumed by R&Q, which totals an unspecified amount.

This move is a significant development in claims and risk management, as it allows R&I Club to focus on other areas of its business.

The agreement highlights the importance of having a clear plan in place for managing occupational disease liabilities.

R&Q's assumption of UK P&I Club's liabilities will likely have a positive impact on the company's risk management strategy.

Reducing Personal Injury Claims for Shipowners

Slips, trips, and falls are serious hazards on ships, posing a significant risk to crew members' health and safety. Over the past ten years, personal injury claims resulting from these incidents have aggregated to a staggering $155 million.

Proper lighting is essential in hazardous areas to prevent accidents. Regularly assessing and identifying hazards or obstructions can also help prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Non-slip surfaces must be in place and regularly maintained to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Crew members should always wear appropriate footwear to prevent accidents.

Credit: youtube.com, RiskWise: Accident, Incident & Claims Management Module

To minimize the risk of slips, trips, and falls, follow these key steps:

  • Ensure adequate lighting in hazardous areas
  • Regularly assess and identify hazards or obstructions
  • Maintain non-slip surfaces
  • Wear appropriate footwear
  • Keep working areas clear of oil, rubbish, and equipment
  • Implement access control measures, such as guardrails and wires
  • Use safety equipment, such as harnesses and nets

If an incident does occur, it's essential to take the right steps to mitigate the consequences. Accurate records should be kept of all types of accidents, and emergency reporting and communication procedures must be followed. Adequate care and first aid must be available and administered correctly, and the crew should be well-trained in recovering people who went overboard.

IBT

The UK P&I Club has taken steps to enhance global claims capability for its members by creating new regional roles for claims handling.

The UK P&I Club has a presence in various regions, with a Regional Claims Director in each main service hub.

The UK P&I Club received a licence for its Rotterdam domiciled subsidiary, UK P&I Club N.V. (UKNV), ensuring continuity for its clients post-Brexit.

The licence was granted by the Netherlands' financial regulator, allowing the club to operate in the region.

Uk Driving License
Credit: pexels.com, Uk Driving License

UK P&I Club N.V. transferred its non-life insurance agreements to Accredited Insurance (Europe) Limited, with the transfer becoming effective on May 20, 2023.

Policyholders have the right to terminate their non-life insurance contracts within three months of the transfer's publication in the Dutch Government Gazette.

If a policyholder terminates their contract, UKNV will refund the insurance premium on a pro rata basis and refund insurance tax.

For more information on the portfolio transfer, visit the press release on UKNV's website.

New Developments and Plans

The UK P&I Club has been making moves to ensure continuity for its clients post-Brexit. The club has announced plans to establish a subsidiary in the Netherlands.

The UK P&I Club has received approval from the Netherlands' financial regulator for a licence for its Rotterdam domiciled subsidiary, UK P&I Club N.V. (UKNV). This licence ensures continuity for its clients.

Insurance and Business

The UK P&I Club provides a range of insurance products for the shipping industry, including protection and indemnity (P&I) insurance.

Audi Logo
Credit: pexels.com, Audi Logo

This type of insurance covers losses and liabilities arising from damage to third parties, cargo, or the ship itself.

The Club's insurance products are designed to meet the specific needs of shipowners, charterers, and other stakeholders in the shipping industry.

Membership in the UK P&I Club is open to shipowners, charterers, and other entities involved in the shipping industry, with over 130 years of experience in providing insurance solutions.

The Club's insurance products are underwritten by a syndicate of Lloyd's insurers, providing a high level of financial security and stability.

The UK P&I Club's insurance products are designed to be flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of the shipping industry, with a range of coverage options available.

The Club's insurance products are also designed to be cost-effective, with competitive premiums and a range of payment options available.

The UK P&I Club's insurance products are available to shipowners and charterers of all sizes, from small, privately-owned vessels to large, multinational shipping companies.

The Club's insurance products are also available to shipowners and charterers operating in a range of different sectors, including cargo shipping, tanker shipping, and offshore energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the P&I Club stand for?

The P&I Club stands for Protection and Indemnity Club, a type of insurance coverage for ship owners. It provides financial protection against liability claims from crew, passengers, and third parties.

What is the rating of the London P&I Club?

The London P&I Club has a long-term financial strength rating of 'BBB' from S&P Global. This rating reflects the Club's disciplined underwriting practices and ability to maintain breakeven earnings.

What is the credit rating for the UK P&I Club?

The UK P&I Club has a top AAA credit rating from S&P, indicating a strong financial position. This rating reflects the club's ability to meet regulatory requirements and maintain financial stability.

Greg Brown

Senior Writer

Greg Brown is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in the world of finance. With a focus on investment strategies, Greg has established himself as a knowledgeable and insightful voice in the industry. Through his writing, Greg aims to provide readers with practical advice and expert analysis on various investment topics.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.