"This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of claims and governance in a way that continues to deliver outstanding outcomes for both customers and our business."
- Tracey Bridger, incoming claims & governance director at L&G
Tracey Bridger currently serves as head of claims for group protection at Legal & General (L&G). As of the 1st January 2026, she will move into the role of claims & governance director as Vanessa Sallows (pictured) transitions to claims & clinical development director.
Vanessa will remain part of L&G’s group protection exco team and as a media spokesperson.
Tracey has worked at L&G for over two decades, starting as a claims assessor before progressing through roles such as team manager and head of claims. “I’m genuinely thrilled to be stepping into the role of claims & governance director. It’s a privilege to lead a function that sits at the heart of our promise to customers and to be there when they need us most,” she said.
Meanwhile, Vanessa has played a vital role in shaping L&G’s group protection strategy, leading pivotal initiatives that have changed how L&G supports its customers.
These achievements include introducing L&G’s ‘once and done’ approach to medical underwriting in 2008/9, simplifying Life Assurance claims by no longer requesting death certificates in 2012, and co-designing L&G’s ‘Be Well. Get Better. Be Supported.’ outcome-focused framework for its Group Income Protection (GIP) proposition.
In her new role, Vanessa will continue to be responsible for industry commentary in the media, including as part of the chief medical officer report and wellbeing advisory board. Where appropriate, she will also meet with intermediaries to discuss L&G’s Be Well. Get Better. Be Supported.’ proposition.
Furthermore, she will continue to have input into L&G’s claims and clinical philosophies alongside mentorship and coaching for colleagues.
She said: “I’m pleased that I’m going to continue to be part of the L&G group protection business, ensuring that we deliver what matters to our customers and supporting people to thrive in the workplace.
“I’m delighted that Tracey will be taking on the role of claims & governance director. I know the group protection claims, clinical, and governance will continue to thrive due to her customer and colleague focus.”
James Shattock, managing director of UK protection at L&G Retail, added: “Tracey brings extensive experience, a strong customer focus and a collaborative leadership style that will support our continued progress. At L&G, we strive to support the development of our people from within, and today’s announcement represents a prime example of this.
“Vanessa has been with L&G for an incredible 21 years and has made an outstanding contribution to L&G Group Protection. We’re thrilled that she’ll continue to bring her expertise to the business in a new role.”
“She has always brought a passion for the psychology of work – understanding what prevents individuals from working during periods of ill-health and supporting them to return to ‘good work’ as part of their recovery,” he concluded.
