Inside IFIG: Jared’s Insights

We’re pleased to welcome Jared, Partner and Head of Counter Fraud at HF, as the newest member of the IFIG Board. With over 20 years’ experience in insurance and fraud investigation, Jared leads HF’s 150-strong counter-fraud department, intelligence team and Scottish operations. A member of HF’s executive board, he brings valuable legal and commercial insight to IFIG, along with a strong commitment to collaboration and developing diverse career pathways within the profession.

What inspired you to join the IFIG board, and what do you hope to bring to the role?

After more than 25 years working in insurance fraud, I felt it was time to give something back to the wider counter-fraud community—especially through an organisation like IFIG that exists not for profit, but for the benefit of the industry. Managing a successful and growing counter-fraud department gives me a solid operational perspective and hopefully some useful insight into what works when it comes to tackling fraud effectively and efficiently.

Tell us a bit about your current role and your background in the insurance/fraud space.

I’m a Partner and Head of Counter Fraud at HF, where I also sit on the executive board. My day-to-day involves overseeing operations and ensuring we deliver the most effective and competitive fraud solutions to our clients in the insurance sector. I’ve also focused heavily on diversifying our department to deal with a broad range of fraudulent claims.

I started my fraud journey back in 2000 at Broker Direct, where I attended a short residential course on fraud; just a few days long, but it sparked a real interest. At the time, I was also studying for my insurance exams and particularly enjoyed the legal aspects. I joined HF in 2003, initially supporting lawyers handling fraudulent claims, and over the years worked my way up to now leading teams of around 200 people.

What’s the biggest challenge you see in fraud prevention today?

The sheer pace of everything. There’s growing pressure on insurers to settle claims faster than ever, and customer service is a top priority. While that’s understandable, it means counter-fraud teams have to work quickly without compromising accuracy. The risk is that, in the drive for speed, even with the best technology in place, some fraudulent claims can slip through the net. Balancing that speed with diligence is a constant challenge.

What excites you most about being part of IFIG?

Being able to learn from peers across the industry. There’s so much knowledge and experience within the group, and I’m really looking forward to sharing ideas, hearing different perspectives, and contributing where I can.

Share one thing people might be surprised to know about you.

I have a private pilot’s licence, but no, I don’t have my own plane (unfortunately!).

What’s your go-to way of switching off outside of work?

Walking. I’m lucky to live near some lovely countryside, a canal, and lots of nature. I try to get out for a 5-mile walk most days, rain or shine. There’s nothing like fresh air to clear your head.

Do you have a favourite book, film, or podcast that’s stuck with you?

I’ll pick something recent to avoid having to test my waning memory!  I get most of my film recommendations from The Week which I enjoy reading most weekends over a morning coffee.  One that really stood out was Flow, a wordless animated Latvian film about a cat and other animals forming an unlikely alliance to survive a flood. It’s visually amazing, and while it touches on climate change, it’s also a story about survival, cooperation, and unexpected, diverse friendships.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting in fraud investigation, what would it be? 

Trust your instincts.  If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Technology is incredibly helpful in pointing us in the right direction, but that gut feeling is still one of the most valuable tools we have. Don’t underestimate it.