Penny Black’s Social Diary: Allianz’s tennis star; ABI’s questions
Penny Black is back, sharing the tittle-tattle she overheard at insurance industry events, reviewing the quality of buffets at conferences and giving a thumbs up – or down – to the sector's social media posts.
We’re here to serve
Allianz has added a new player to its roster of global brand ambassadors, and this one comes with four Grand Slam titles and about 300 million tennis fans worldwide.
The insurer recently announced a multi-year global partnership with Jannik Sinner, the current number-two ATP tennis player.
The partnership centres on the tagline “we’re here to serve” – a pleasingly tennis-adjacent choice that captures both Sinner’s on-court ethos and Allianz’s purpose.
Beyond the marketing campaigns, the collaboration extends to supporting The Jannik Sinner Foundation, which uses education and sport to empower children.
Tennis is apparently the second-most popular sport behind football across Allianz’s key markets, with a billion-strong ATP global fan base. It’s a thoughtful play for emotional engagement, though I do wonder if anyone at Allianz has considered the stress levels involved in watching Grand Slam finals.
Penny is up for strawberries and cream, Pimm’s, champagne, and afternoon tea – if you want her help at Wimbledon supporting your new sporting star.
Penny’s Lunch Box
How I love it when a conference surprises me and goes for a desert option more daring than a cake, tart or sorbet.
The vanilla set custard with crushed cookies at the Association of British Insurers’ conference was a delightful deviation from the usual choices.
I’m one of the dignified people of taste who believe cookies and cream is the best ice cream flavour, and I can now proudly say the principle extends to custard. Five stars.
Out of context
“We’re all friends here, so you shouldn’t be shy.”
Charlene White, ITN journalist and Loose Women presenter, encourages ABI delegates to do the old fashioned thing and raise their hand to ask the speakers some questions.
Only users who have a paid subscription or are part of a corporate subscription are able to print or copy content.
To access these options, along with all other subscription benefits, please contact info@postonline.co.uk or view our subscription options here: https://subscriptions.postonline.co.uk/subscribe
You are currently unable to print this content. Please contact info@postonline.co.uk to find out more.
You are currently unable to copy this content. Please contact info@postonline.co.uk to find out more.
Copyright Infopro Digital Limited. All rights reserved.
As outlined in our terms and conditions, https://www.infopro-digital.com/terms-and-conditions/subscriptions/ (point 2.4), printing is limited to a single copy.
If you would like to purchase additional rights please email info@postonline.co.uk
Copyright Infopro Digital Limited. All rights reserved.
You may share this content using our article tools. As outlined in our terms and conditions, https://www.infopro-digital.com/terms-and-conditions/subscriptions/ (clause 2.4), an Authorised User may only make one copy of the materials for their own personal use. You must also comply with the restrictions in clause 2.5.
If you would like to purchase additional rights please email info@postonline.co.uk
More on People
GIN’s Smith on the courage to have imperfect conversations
Becs Smith, communications and social media lead at the Gender Inclusion Network, addresses the importance of voice, visibility and ensuring the stories of women working in insurance are told.
Turning inclusion intent into action in insurance
Martyn Mathews, managing director of SSP Broker, says general insurers should stop making assumptions about what women need in the workplace and create space for them to share the barriers they face to progression openly.
Five future female insurance leaders
As International Women’s Day approaches, Insurance Post highlights five women working in the insurance industry in 2026 who are on a trajectory to become bosses in the UK’s largest insurance businesses.
Building confidence and community for women in insurance
Catherine Tillyard, partner in treaty reinsurance at McGill and Partners, explains how structured mentoring and community foster confidence and career progression.
FCA names Brewis replacement
The Financial Conduct Authority has hired Chris Knight as director of insurance.
Allianz’s Rayner on why social mobility matters
View from the top: Alison Rayner, chief compliance officer at Allianz UK, outlines how industry can support the professional progression of people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
From hairdresser to head of risk: a journey in insurance
Kelly Clark, head of risk at Dual, shares how visibility, mentoring, and inclusion helped her thrive in a male-dominated industry.
Addressing patterns that stop female insurers progression
Clarissa Montecillo, managing director of standards-setting body Acord, argues while experience can vary the patterns that stunt female insurer's career progression aren’t uncommon and warrant practical action.