Ex-Direct Line CFO Jane Poole Joins CFC as Group Chief Financial Officer
In a major move for the insurance industry, Jane Poole, former Group CFO of Direct Line Group, has been named the new Group Chief Financial Officer at CFC, a leading cyber insurance specialist. Announced on September 3, 2025, Poole’s appointment signals CFC’s ambition to scale globally, leveraging her extensive FTSE 100 experience to drive financial strategy in a rapidly evolving market.
Poole Takes the Helm at CFC
Jane Poole will assume the role of Group CFO at CFC later this month, pending regulatory approval, succeeding Michael Grist, who has held the position for nearly 16 years. Grist will transition to an advisory role by late 2025 to ensure a seamless handover, reflecting CFC’s commitment to continuity. CFC Group CEO Louise O’Shea praised Poole’s “deep FTSE 100 and general insurance executive experience” and her ability to lead strategic transformation and high-performing teams.
Poole expressed excitement about joining CFC, stating, “It’s a unique business with an incredible track record, and I look forward to accelerating the next phase of global growth.” Her appointment follows CFC’s recent hire of Nick Line as Chief Underwriting Officer, set to start in 2026, further strengthening its leadership.
A Proven Track Record in Insurance Finance
Poole brings over 20 years of financial expertise, starting as a Chartered Accountant at PwC and progressing to senior roles at RSA Insurance Group, where she served as CFO of UK & International businesses by 2020. In 2021, she joined Aviva as CFO for its UK & Ireland General Insurance division, driving profitability and capital efficiency.
In October 2024, Poole became Group CFO at Direct Line Group, navigating a challenging period that culminated in Aviva’s £3.7 billion acquisition of Direct Line in 2025. During her tenure, she bolstered financial stability and supported strategic initiatives, though her exit followed the merger’s integration. Poole’s leadership at RSA earned her team the Finance Team of the Year award at the British Accountancy Awards for establishing a Global Finance Centre.
Context: CFC’s Growth and Industry Trends
CFC, a London-based MGA, has carved a niche in cyber insurance, offering innovative products to businesses worldwide. With cybercrime costs projected to hit $13.8 trillion globally by 2028, CFC’s focus on specialized coverage positions it for significant growth. Poole’s experience with large-scale insurers like Aviva and Direct Line equips her to manage CFC’s financial strategy amid rising demand for cyber protection.
The insurance sector is witnessing frequent leadership shifts, driven by mergers and emerging risks. Direct Line’s acquisition by Aviva reshaped the UK personal lines market, and Poole’s move to CFC reflects a trend of seasoned executives joining agile, tech-driven firms.
Reactions and Industry Insights
Industry analysts see Poole’s hire as a strategic win for CFC. “Her expertise in navigating complex financial landscapes at FTSE 100 firms makes her a perfect fit for CFC’s ambitious goals,” noted a UK insurance commentator. On X, professionals lauded the move, with one post stating, “Jane Poole to CFC is huge—her track record screams value creation for a cyber leader like CFC.”
Some express caution about regulatory challenges in the cyber insurance space, given increasing scrutiny over claims handling and pricing. However, O’Shea’s endorsement of Poole’s collaborative style suggests confidence in her ability to address these hurdles.
Relevance to U.S. Audiences: Business, Economy, and Cyber Security
For American businesses and investors, Poole’s appointment at CFC has significant implications. CFC serves a growing U.S. client base, with cyber insurance demand surging as U.S. companies face $1.5 trillion in annual cyberattack losses. Poole’s financial leadership could stabilize premiums and enhance coverage options, benefiting sectors like tech, healthcare, and retail.
Economically, CFC’s growth under Poole may create U.S. jobs in underwriting and tech development, supporting the $600 billion insurance industry. Politically, her expertise could influence cross-border discussions on cyber regulation, aligning with U.S. efforts to strengthen data protection laws. Lifestyle-wise, robust cyber insurance protects Americans from identity theft and financial losses, while technologically, CFC’s AI-driven underwriting tools could set trends for U.S. insurers. In sports, enhanced cyber protections safeguard teams and venues from breaches, ensuring seamless fan experiences.
Conclusion: A New Era for CFC’s Financial Strategy
Jane Poole’s transition from Direct Line to CFC as Group CFO marks a pivotal moment for the cyber insurance leader, bringing her proven expertise to a firm poised for global expansion. As she steps into the role, Poole is expected to drive financial discipline and innovation, building on Michael Grist’s legacy.
For U.S. stakeholders, this move signals stronger transatlantic ties in tackling cyber risks, with potential benefits for businesses and consumers. Looking ahead, Poole’s leadership will likely shape CFC’s trajectory, reinforcing its position in a high-growth, high-stakes market.