BANGKOK, THAILAND — During the WING (Worldwide Insurance Network Group) General Assembly in Bangkok, the network paused to formally recognize and thank Annelie Smith as she concludes two remarkable terms (8 years) on the WING board. Chris Ball, who was recently appointed to the role of chairman, thanked Annelie for her commitment and contribution to the group for the previous 8 years.
Annelie has been a cornerstone of the group’s leadership. Regarded by colleagues as a “walking Wikipedia” for governance and statutes, her sharp recall and dedication to WING’s founding values have been instrumental in maintaining the network’s integrity and strategic direction.
Her global impact spans nearly a decade of contributions, including:
- Operational Excellence: Guiding the ongoing refinement and interpretation of WING’s principles of governance.
- Event Innovation: Sourcing world-class speakers and scouting premier locations for major events, including the 2023 conference in Cape Town.
- Strategic Advocacy: Consistently challenging the status quo to ensure diverse perspectives were considered in every decision.
Reflecting on her tenure, the group cited a favourite quote of Annelie’s from Nelson Mandela: “I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.”
“Annelie’s independent mind and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on our organization,” the group stated. “We are better for her eight years of service.”
About WING
WING (Worldwide Insurance Network Group) is a premier global alliance of independent insurance powerhouses, comprised of 74 members across 195 countries, delivering seamless risk management and insurance solutions worldwide. Read more about WING.


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