has been appointed president of the Bermuda Insurance Institute, the industry's training and education body with 140 member companies.

And she has put the development of a five-year strategic plan among her priorities.

Formerly in the chair of the BII's education committee, Ms Nicoll stated: "We have accomplished a great deal in a very short period, so I think it's time to take stock of where we are and what needs to be done next.'' The BII's first female president, Ms Nicoll had served as vice president under Mr. Glen Gibbons, who stepped down last week after two years.

Ms Nicoll, 40, heads the direct broking unit of J&H Intermediaries.

Newly appointed members of the Institute's council include vice president Mr.

Carl Daly, honourary secretary Mr. Larry Lombardo, honourary treasurer Mr.

Andy McComb, immediate past president Mr. Glen Gibbons, young members committee chairman Mr. Scott Kitson, information technology chairman Mr. Mike Dwyer and council members Mr. Peter Oliver and Mr. Rees Fletcher.

Ms Sheila Nicoll