Telbert is based in our headquarters in St. Kitts and Nevis. After graduating with a PhD in Electronics Engineering in the UK, Telbert began his career as a high school teacher before transitioning to government. He served as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communication, Public Works and Utilities and the Ministry of Planning and Development. His experience in the public sector brought him exposure to regulatory and governing bodies as well as working directly with a broad range of financial services. He switched to the insurance industry and set up his own consulting firm before joining NPRe as an insurance agent and manager, and eventually, a board member.
- What led you from working in the public sector with the Nevis Island Government to reinsurance?
It was the natural next step in my career. After scaling the leadership ladder with the Nevis Island government I was ready for a new challenge that involved strategic planning. The reinsurance industry offered opportunities in strategic planning, and NPRe is a global company that offered opportunities to work across most different companies and jurisdictions.
- How has your experience as Permanent Secretary for the Nevis government shaped your leadership at NPRe?
My experience as a Permanent Secretary within the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) government developed my skills in regulatory compliance and strategic planning. Working on national initiatives improved my ability to navigate regulatory frameworks and deepened my strategic planning skills.
The skills working in the public sector translates well to the reinsurance industry, where our business is driven by risk management and timely responses to crises.
- How has your experience in policy and regulation shaped your view of today’s reinsurance market?
My experience has led me to believe that regulation can complement rather than inhibit increasing competition and capacity. Despite the compliance becoming more stringent, my experience in public service means I appreciate the discipline that underpins the insurance industry. I believe we are seeing a transition from a hard market to a more buyer-friendly environment. Global insurance rates are falling, and capacity remains strong, but this softer market is more disciplined than in previous cycles. Meaning, the market remains aware of risks and the importance of prudent underwriting despite promising outlooks. This trend aligns with my belief that vigilance remains a priority even as conditions soften. Regulatory expectations around solvency, capital buffers and reserve adequacy remain a priority, particularly in light of emerging risks such as climate change and geopolitical instability.
- As Executive Director, can you describe your role and responsibilities at NPRe?
My role is centred on providing strategic leadership and ensuring the effective translation of the Board’s vision into material outcomes. My role sits at the intersection of governance and execution, ensuring that high-level objectives are cascaded into the organisation. In close collaboration with fellow Board members and the executive team, we drive initiatives that position the company for sustainable growth.
- Can you describe your academic background? How has your PhD and expertise in Financial Engineering and Risk Management shaped your approach to risk in the reinsurance world?
My bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics from the University of the West Indies, gave me a solid grounding in quantitative reasoning and scientific methodology. I subsequently studied for both a master’s degree and PhD at the University of Southampton in Electronic Engineering. During my tenure as Program Director for the University of the West Indies Distance Learning Programme, I further expanded my expertise by studying Actuarial Science. My time in academia means I value research and innovation in financial engineering and actuarial principles, rather than just adhering to traditional practices. Risk for me is a quantifiable, manageable variable.
I rely on data-driven methods, such as probability theory, stochastic modelling and advanced computational tools, to evaluate and price risk with accuracy and consistency. This analytical framework is particularly valuable in reinsurance, where exposures are often complex and interconnected.
- What are you the most excited about for NPRe’s future?
The opportunity to help shape a future in which NPRe evolves beyond its traditional role into a more proactive and insightful partner for its clients. In 10 years, I see the company growing substantially, especially growing our health and medical insurance industry clients. I believe our underwriting and claims services are what differentiate us from other reinsurers, and the market is only growing for the partnerships we can provide.
- What is your favourite way to wind down after work? How do you like to spend your weekends?
I must admit that I find it challenging at times to fully disconnect, as I am quite passionate about my work.
However, I do value moments of quiet relaxation. I enjoy unwinding in the evenings with a cup of tea or hot chocolate, taking the time to clear my head while watching a bit of television.
On weekends, I like walking and, most importantly, spending quality time with my family.