MGAA appoints Alison Cairns as learning and development manager 

The Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA) has announced the appointment of Alison Cairns as its new learning and development manager, as the organisation looks to strengthen its commitment to professional development across the MGA market. 

Cairns joins from AXA UK, where she held the role of underwriting competency development manager. Her background spans insurance training, technical capability, financial services coaching, and change consulting – expertise the MGAA hopes will play a key role in expanding its training initiatives for members. 

The appointment is part of a wider push by the MGAA to reinforce its value proposition through high-quality training programmes focused on professionalisation, regulatory awareness, and best practices. Cairns will lead the association’s learning and insight programme, covering underwriting, claims, operations and compliance, while also overseeing educational partnerships and member-led learning sessions. 

Michael Keating, CEO of the MGAA, said, “We are delighted to welcome Alison to the growing MGAA team. Training and professional development are fundamental to ensuring the long-term success of MGAs, and Alison’s expertise will be invaluable in driving forward our initiatives. She will take the lead on expanding our training offering and strengthening our relationships across the market.” 

Cairns added, “I am thrilled to be joining the MGAA at such an exciting time for the industry. Training and development play a crucial role in fostering excellence within MGAs, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place. By enhancing and expanding the MGAA’s training programmes, we can help MGAs stay ahead of regulatory requirements, develop technical expertise, and drive professional growth across the sector.” 

The MGAA represents over 200 MGAs, suppliers, and insurers across the UK and Ireland, and is the sector’s only not-for-profit trade body. 

Image provided by the MGAA 

Josie Geistfeld Josie is an editor for Claims Media. She welcomes feedback, comments, and opinion at josie.geistfeld@barkerbrooks.co.uk