The top man at Argus Group has become responsible for the strategic direction of the Bermuda Insurance Institute for the next two years.

The BII facilitates insurance studies, and insurance-related studies in Bermuda and also organises discussions of industry matters and other interaction among industry participants. It announced yesterday that it had elected Argus president, CEO and director Gerald Simons as its new president. He replaces Elspeth Brewin and, for his two-year term, will be responsible for the strategic direction of the BII as well as presiding over the functions of the Council of the BII and its various sub-committees. Previously he served as vice-president of the institute.

Mr. Simons takes over the post at a time when the Island has witnessed tremendous growth in the insurance and reinsurance sectors.

"By striving to achieve high levels of professionalism in training, regulation and conduct, Bermuda will continue to compete favourably on the world insurance stage. We must also work to ensure that all members of our community fully understand the opportunities available in both local and international insurance companies and the role the Bermuda Insurance Institute plays in preparing people to join and advance in the industry," he said.

Mr Simons has spent the past 35-years with Argus. He also had a lengthy career as a politician, serving in the Bermuda legislature from 1982 until 1995. As Minister of Education, he led the restructuring of the schools system. He was also Minister of the Environment and Minster of Community and Cultural Affairs. He has previously served as president of the Health Insurance Association of Bermuda, the Bermuda Employers Council, the Bermuda National Trust and the Bermuda Philharmonic Society and is also director of various local and international companies. He holds a degree in economics from the University of Western Ontario and has been an Officer the Order of the British Empire for the past decade.

Retiring BII President Elspeth Brewin said that as a former Minister of Education and head of one of the island's leading local insurance companies, Mr. Simons is ideally suited to guide the Institute in its next stage of development.

"Under his leadership the Bermuda Insurance Institute will go from strength to strength," she said.

The BII also announced the election of its new council members R. John Wight and Jonathan Beck. Retiring from the BII Council after 25 and 14 years respectively are Mark Berry and Lorraine Mewett. The BII is the premier provider of education and professional development for those working in the insurance industry, or looking to enter the industry.