The Chartered Insurance Institute has appointed Jennette Newman as chair of its Professional Standards Committee.

The Professional Standards Committee ensures standards for professional conduct, including disciplinary and membership procedures, are developed and maintained in line with the CII’s Code of Ethics.

It also ensures the continuing integrity of the CII’s Chartered titles including Chartered Financial Planner.

It provides independent guidance on accountability, transparency and consumer representation for the body.

Ms Newman takes over from David Hertzell, who stepped down as chair last month after six years.

She is a partner in the insurance division of global law firm Clyde & Co and is also vice-president of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL). She has many years of experience handling complex insurance litigation and regulatory disputes as a lawyer in private practice.

She has been involved with the CII as part of the Insurance Institute of London’s mentoring programme and was involved with the Insuring Women’s Futures initiative.

Mr Hertzell was managing partner of law firm DAC until 2006. He was a Law Commissioner from 2007 until 2014, leading the insurance law reform project.

Sian Fisher, chief executive of the Chartered Insurance Institute, said: “I would like to thank David for his outstanding chairmanship of the committee over the past six years. Under his leadership, the profile of professional standards in our sector has been raised, and the continuing integrity of the CII’s Chartered titles has been preserved.

“Like David, Jennette is an independent lawyer with extensive experience working with our sector. I welcome her appointment as chair and her fresh perspective on how the Chartered Insurance Institute can raise professional standards to further build public trust in our united profession.”