ACORD, the global standard-setting body for the insurance industry, has appointed Yolanda Austin as Vice President (VP) of Standards Engagement and Clarissa Montecillo as Managing Director (MD) of ACORD UK.
Both appointments underscore the organization’s commitment to driving digitalization in the global insurance industry and providing leaders with the expertise and vision to drive industry-wide collaboration and efficiency through standards.
The organization explained that the pair have demonstrated leadership that will continue to position ACORD as an innovation catalyst and trusted partner to help industry prepare for a smarter, more connected future.
In her new role, Austin will lead ACORD members through standards, programs, resources and services while ensuring these assets continue to align with business needs and support success.
She has more than thirty years of insurance industry experience, including nearly two decades at Lincoln Financial Group, where she led technology infrastructure efforts, worked with industry working groups, and worked to improve data standards.
Austin has been ACORD’s life and annuity program manager for seven years and has served as senior director of life and annuities for the past three years.
As UK Managing Director, Montecillo will lead all ACORD operations in the country, guiding the development, adoption and governance of ACORD standards in the region. Her focus is on delivering tangible benefits to stakeholders in the London market and across the region.
She has over twenty years of experience in the London market, having worked as a business analyst for Lloyd’s, AXA, DXC Technology and other leading brokers and operators.
Over the past four years, as head of ACORD GRLC (Global Reinsurance and Large Commercial), she has driven modern and advanced data standards across the UK market, improving efficiency, transparency and collaboration.
Earlier this month, ACORD revealed that its 2026 board will be chaired by Robert Kelly AM, founder, managing director and chief executive of Steadfast Group Limited.
