UK health and life insurer The Exeter has appointed James Shepherd to its board as a non-executive director, with effect from 2 February.

Shepherd (pictured) joins the mutual following a 37-year executive career at Swiss Re and GE Capital, where he held a number of senior global leadership roles.

Over the past 14 years he served as chief operating officer of Swiss Re’s global reinsurance business, chief transformation officer for the group, and leader of its global in-force life and health operation.

His career began in underwriting and has since spanned operational leadership, data and technology management, and the oversight of valuation and claims functions at a global level.

The Exeter said this breadth of experience would strengthen board oversight as the business continues to develop its health and protection propositions.

In addition to his executive background, Shepherd brings 25 years’ experience in transformation programmes, including technology change, process improvement, organisational design and governance.

The insurer said this expertise would support its long-term strategy in the UK health and life insurance markets.

James Shepherd, non-executive director at The Exeter, commented: “I am thrilled to join the team at The Exeter, a business that I see as truly trying to close the protection gap by designing products for traditionally underserved customer segments.

“Peter Hubbard and Isobel Langton have set out to expand what they provide for their members, and I look forward to helping them deliver on this ambition.”

Peter Hubbard, chair of The Exeter, added: “It’s a privilege to welcome James to the board and to The Exeter. He brings an exceptional depth of experience across health and protection, combined with his strong track record in governance, operations and transformation initiatives within our sector.

“As a mutual, our long-term focus is on improving outcomes for our members and supporting advisers in closing the protection gap. James shares that commitment and it will be a pleasure to work closely with him as a board member.”