Board Of Management
David Allen
ChairmanIn my 7 years as Chairman I have seen the Society and its remarkable team blossom in what has been a period of unprecedented growth. Recent industry awards and commendations are a fitting tribute to all the innovation, resolve and hard work which has underpinned this. I am proud to report, furthermore, that it has been achieved in the toughest of economic and competitive environments without compromising either the creative instincts or dedication to customer care which are at the heart of our corporate belief. It is this belief, and the success which it has brought, which will continue to drive our future development.
Alex McKinnell MBE
Deputy ChairmanIt has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve Health Shield and its predecessor the Transport Hospital Fund for the last 28 years. During this time the Society has helped many tens of thousands of its members meet day to day medical expenses not covered by the NHS. The world in which Health Shield operates has changed beyond recognition in this time and so has Health Shield in order to survive and continue to serve its members whose numbers are now growing. I am sure Health Shield will continue to grow, thus securing the Society's future.
Jonathan Burton
Chief Executive2011 has been my 10th year as Chief Executive of the Society and in this time Health Shield has defied difficult economic conditions to deliver a fourfold increase in its membership numbers whilst almost doubling its contribution income. This year also saw the Society receive the coveted 'Best cash plan' award at the Health Insurance awards for the first time. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support from staff at every level of the organisation. I would like to particularly thank my fellow directors, both executive and non-executive. Their loyalty and dedication has helped to make the Society what it is - a major player in the cash plan marketplace.
Tabitha Brufal
Non-executive DirectorI started my career as a clinical psychologist, helping adults with problems such as depression, anxiety and panic. I now work as a civil servant and have been involved in a variety of policy and strategy development projects. I think Health Shield offers a range of flexible products which help people cover additional health care costs. The tailored schemes also offer employers the opportunity to promote health and well-being across their workforce.
Michael Carpenter
Non-executive DirectorI joined the Board in 2003, after holding a number of posts in the European Commission and the Government Legal Service, involving complex international negotiations and frequent contact with ministers. This experience has taught me the value of combining independence of mind with being an effective 'team player'. I have had a particular responsibility for treating customers fairly, but now chair the Risk Management Committee.
Alan Phizacklea
Non-executive DirectorI first became associated with Health Shield in 1974 when as an investment manager I became involved in managing the Society's investment portfolio. I was appointed a trustee in 1998 and following incorporation of the Society was appointed as a nonexecutive director. Health Shield has evolved steadily during this period, continually striving to improve the service and benefits to members, and is now a real force in the health cash plan market. This is in no small part due to the commitment and willingness shown by the staff throughout the company and I feel privileged to be part of the success story that is Health Shield.
Brian Stringer
Non-executive DirectorI have been a member of Health Shield for over 40 years and have seen many changes over this time. Under the direction of the executive team, Health Shield is increasing its market share in a highly competitive cash plan market and has seen its customer base grow to nearly 140,000 members. My professional expertise as a Human Resources manager, within the rail industry, has provided me with a wealth of knowledge on people issues and the necessary strategic direction to ensure the continued growth of the Society. A non-executive's role has become more challenging over recent years and we have to ensure that the Society delivers the best for our customers whilst ensuring good governance. I am pleased to be part of the Health Shield team in a non-executive director role.
Mel Welsh
Non-executive DirectorI have been a member of Health Shield for over 40 years. I worked in IT for 25 years having started my career in Human Resources. In addition, I am a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and therefore have a good knowledge of both areas. Our aim as directors of Health Shield is to see the Society expand and improve its market share. We aim to improve our membership products, whilst still retaining our commitment to treating customers fairly - ensuring we continue our excellent service levels and quick turnaround of claims. In a difficult financial market we will strive to ensure that Health Shield delivers on its promises. The Health Shield directors and its staff are fully committed to achieving the delivery of our targets whilst the business goes through a challenging time of regulatory changes.
Maxine Wilson
Executive DirectorI have worked for Health Shield for 12 years and was appointed to the Board in 2005. During the last twelve months my focus has been on the implementation of new computer systems to ensure that the Society continues to meet the increasing demands placed on us by our customers and members. In addition I have been heavily engaged in the drive for greater efficiency and value within the Society's cost base. This has included the establishment of a strong in house HR team to further develop our teams, which will help to underpin the Society's future growth plans.
Philip Wood
Executive DirectorIt is a pleasure to be a member of the Board and management team at Health Shield. I direct sales and marketing activity and was appointed to the Board in 2005. I am a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and have also tutored on marketing management and strategy. It's great to work with a strong, cohesive board and management team to achieve company objectives. We continue to deliver market leading healthcare cash plan products that more than meet membership and stakeholder expectations. Despite the economy and competitor challenges, we have increased Health Shield's brand awareness, strengthened membership numbers and improved premium income levels. I am looking forward to helping shape Health Shield's plans for the future, whilst striving to maintain an excellent reputation as an award winning Friendly Society.
Michael Yates
Non-executive DirectorI have worked within the railway industry for over 34 years and have been a member of Health Shield for 28 years. I am actively involved in both union matters and the first aid movement within the railways. I was a local councillor for 10 years and feel that this experience helped me to develop skills that I now use as a non-executive director. I am committed to the principles of mutuality and as the Society grows, I feel it is important we keep in touch with our members. We encourage our members to inform the Board of any improvements they feel that the Society could make to its customer service levels. This feedback is important, both to the Society and to me as someone who represents the interest of the membership. I am very pleased with the performance of Health Shield over recent years and am very proud of the awards won by the Society which is a credit to all Health Shield staff.
