Beazley joins CEDR to develop conflict resolution

by Gill Montia

Story link: Beazley joins CEDR to develop conflict resolution

Beazley Group has become a member of the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) in a move that will help the firm develop the use of conflict management techniques in settling claims.

CEDR is an independent non-profit organisation that works in the UK and internationally.

According to the Centre’s website, it aims to “cut the cost of conflict and create a world of choice and capability in conflict prevention and resolution”.

Beazley and CEDR have worked together on a number of occasions and the London-based insurer’s chief executive, Andrew Horton, explains that its claims managers are already well aware that litigation frequently does not provide the best outcome for clients.

CEDR chief executive, Karl Mackie, adds that Beazley’s support for the Centre’s goals “demonstrates their desire to maintain their reputation as a forward looking insurer that seeks the most cost effective outcomes for its clients”.

The collaboration means that Beazley will have exclusive access to senior CEDR executives with experience of the insurer’s specific areas of operation.

In addition to providing information and guidance in relation to mediation, CEDR staff can identify “neutrals”, that is to say people with the skills and experience to meet the needs of parties in dispute.

Beazley Group manages four Lloyd’s syndicates, two of which underwrite a broad range of insurance and reinsurance business worldwide.

Another focuses on accident and health business and the fourth is a dedicated life syndicate.

The group underwrote gross premiums of £875.7 million in 2008.