Nominated by the council of the Insurance and Actuarial Society of Glasgow (IASG), for which she is secretary, Ms Murray has been recognised for more than three decades’ voluntary service to the education and professional development of members in the local branch.

The award is as part of the CII Ambassadors in Action programme to highlight and reward volunteers across the institute’s national network of insurance and actuary associations. From an ordinary member to chair of the IASG’s professional development sub-group — organising seminars, CPD training, and exams — to Secretary, Ms Murray has played a crucial role in the careers of hundreds of members over the years.

The citation read: “This exceptional service award recognises those who have exceeded the requirements of a role at a regional or national level… [and] recognises those who have become champions for their local institute or regional PFS committee and are great advocates for the CII and insurance and personal finance sector.”

Ms Murray was presented with the award at the IASG’s recent annual gala dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Glasgow by president Kevin O’Neill in front of more than 550 members and guests.

She said: “I was extremely honoured to be nominated by my local branch for this national CII award and it was lovely to receive it from our president Kevin while among friends at our Gala Dinner. It was a very special night with a fantastic atmosphere; there was a real buzz in the room as we appreciated being back together for the first time in three years following Covid.

“I’ve enjoyed being an active member of the IASG over the years and have met some really interesting and lovely people though the association. I believe in providing opportunity for professional development and encouraging people to progress throughout their careers; it helps to promote the industry and benefit clients as well. This role has allowed me to play a part in achieving all of those aims, and I’m proud to be part of an active and progressive organisation which shares that vision.”

ISAG president Kevin O’Neill said: “The IASG council was unanimous in putting Ruth forward for all her hard work and guidance over a number of years. I was delighted to have the opportunity, in front of her home crowd, to present her with the national award for ‘Exceptional Service’.

“We have more than 3,500 members here in Glasgow and Ruth, with her organisation and commitment to the association, has long been the glue that holds us together. We are extremely proud of her and thrilled that she has been recognised by the Chartered Institute at a national level with one of their highest honours.”

Glasgow born and bred, Ms Murray began her insurance career in claims in 1980 and moved to Aon seven years ago, working first in commercial insurance broking before being promoted to Public Sector Client Services Director.

Gavin Carson, managing director for Aon in Scotland, said: “It was wonderful to see Ruth recognised for her commitment to the IASG and its members over more than three decades.

“With more than 3,500 members locally, there will be many insurance professionals in the local area whose careers have benefitted from Ruth’s voluntary service and who will, I’m sure, want to join me in congratulating her on this exceptional achievement.”

The gala dinner also saw presentation of the IASG young professional of the year award. This went to Rebecca Corley of Travelers Insurance. Ms Corley excelled on her graduate placement with Travelers, including completing her ACII qualification successfully and is now an associate underwriter.