With both immense pride and deep sadness, we share that Joanna Fairbairn has been posthumously awarded “Most Inspiring Returner” at the Women in Insurance Awards 2025.
The award was announced last night at the ceremony held at the Marriott Grosvenor House in London. Jo’s mother, Angela Harrington, and her brother, Chris Fairbairn, accepted the award on behalf of her family.
Jo led CNA Hardy’s Exposure and Catastrophe Management (ECM) team and dedicated nearly 24 years to the company. Her strength, determination, and unwavering spirit inspired everyone around her as she bravely faced breast cancer—a battle she sadly lost in July this year.
Carl Kearney, SVP, Chief Actuary and Risk Officer at CNA Hardy, worked directly with Jo for the past 12 years. He said: "We are incredibly proud of this recognition for Jo, and are honoured to have had her as a colleague. Jo is remembered not only for her expertise and leadership, but for her warmth, kindness, and the genuine care that she showed to every person that she met. Her legacy continues to shape CNA Hardy and will be felt for years to come.”