In this role, Bilge will be responsible for leading Brit’s technology and data strategy to further advance the business’ focus on delivering an innovative, data-driven and technology empowered platform for underwriting, claims and operations. Brit has been a leading participant in the digitalisation of the London market, including launching Ki, the Lloyd's market's first fully digital and algorithmically driven syndicate in 2020.

Bilge brings 18 years’ experience in technology, with a strong track record in driving commercial value and business transformation through the integration of automation and technology. She joins from InsurTech iptiQ, Swiss Re’s start-up where she most recently held the position of Senior Director and member of the Executive Committee. Here, Bilge was responsible for developing and driving iptiQ’s tech strategy, building its global engineering community and delivering its white labelled insurance platform to iptiQ’s distribution partners.

Bilge also brings valuable experience from outside of the insurance industry, with a career that has spanned, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), pharmaceuticals and consultancy. Prior to joining iptiQ in 2019, she previously worked at British American Tobacco, Mondelez and Accenture UK.

Bilge begins her role on 4 January 2022, reporting to Sheel Sawhney, Group Head of Claims and Operations at Brit.

Sheel Sawhney, said: “Brit continues to fully embrace the power of automation, machine learning, data and technology with a view to enhance and transform how we underwrite, service claims and improve customers’ experience. Bilge brings a strong blend of experience from both within and outside the insurance industry and her appointment will enable us to continue in this mission, applying the latest innovations, approaches, and technology to how we write risk.”

Bilge Mert said: “Brit is one of the most innovative firms in the market when it comes to using technology and digitisation to drive better outcomes for clients, brokers and the sector at large. As an organisation with genuine conviction in the transformative power of tech and data in insurance, I’m excited to be joining Brit, and look forward to working with the team to continue developing innovative solutions to the market’s challenges.”