5 key themes shaping the future of Delegated Authority

The results of the Delegated Authority Strategy Day 2025 Pre-event survey, highlighting the most important topics to be discussed at the event.

 

The pre-event survey highlights five critical and interconnected themes shaping the future of Delegated Authority (DA): data transformation, overcoming bordereaux challenges, leveraging AI and emerging technology, operational modernisation and tackling talent constraints.

1. Data transformation is the foundation for future DA success

Respondents overwhelmingly emphasised the need for high-quality, timely and consistent data to drive oversight, risk management and performance. Data challenges remain pervasive, with participants asking: “How do we help our DCAs provide the data we require, how can technology help drive this and thereafter analysing trends and reviewing indicators?” There is a strong push for market-wide data standards and a unified approach to reporting, moving towards “one version of the truth.”

2. Moving beyond bordereaux is an operational imperative

Bordereaux management remains a critical pain point. Respondents expressed frustration with data delays, inconsistency and manual processing. The aspiration is clear: “How do we move past bordereaux to data-centric insurance not document-centric insurance?” There is a desire to see automated, real-time data flows through API connectivity, underpinned by standardised definitions and streamlined ingestion processes. As one participant put it: “It would be ideal that bordereaux could be at the click of a button rather than waiting weeks — but we are a long way off.”

3. AI and automation offer transformational potential but require careful application

AI is viewed as a critical enabler of DA evolution, particularly in due diligence, audit management, claims processes and governance reporting. However, concerns remain around governance, cost, and market readiness. One respondent asked: “Are large language models reliable enough to trust to make decisions?” Others recognised the risk of cultural resistance: “How do we effectively dovetail the use of emerging technology with a delegated authority culture rooted in traditional practices?”

4. Operational modernisation must go beyond incremental improvements

The future of DA operations depends on scalable models, integrated technology and end-to-end process redesign. Respondents are seeking “transformational change within a DA team” and “operational advances that deliver more than just a faster horse.” The goal is to align the DA operating model with improved loss ratios, customer outcomes and reduced manual effort.

5. Addressing the talent gap is essential to DA's long-term sustainability

The DA space is struggling to attract and retain talent. Respondents noted that “DA remains a neglected environment, seen by the market as a cost not a benefit.” There is a call to reposition the sector by making it “more attractive to younger talent” and investing in skills development to support a modernised, technology-driven DA landscape.

Conclusion

These themes reflect a market at an inflection point — navigating legacy challenges while pursuing a digitally enabled future. The consistent emphasis on data, automation, scalability and people highlights a collective appetite for bold, coordinated action across the DA ecosystem. As the market considers its next phase, success will depend on aligning strategy, investment and cultural change to deliver a Delegated Authority model that is resilient, responsive and fit for purpose.