Athith Gnanendran appointed Chair of Oil, Petrochemical and Energy Risks Association (OPERA)

We’re delighted to share that Athith Gnanendran has been appointed Chair of the Oil, Petrochemical and Energy Risks Association (OPERA).

Having been actively involved with OPERA for more than 11 years, Athith’s appointment reflects not only his deep technical expertise but also his commitment to contributing to the wider industry alongside his role here at Chaucer.

Founded in 1979, OPERA is a leading forum for exchanging technical insight across oil, gas, petrochemical, power generation and energy transition risks. Athith’s leadership will help continue its mission of fostering collaboration and knowledge‑sharing across the market.

Following his appointment, we spoke with Athith about his career journey, his recent ACII qualification, his work at Chaucer, and what continues to inspire him within the industry.

First of all, congratulations! How does it feel to achieve your qualification and take on the role of Chair at OPERA? 

"Thank you! It feels incredibly rewarding. I’ve been involved with OPERA for around 11 years now, and becoming Chair is something I’m really proud of. OPERA runs monthly technical seminars and market socials, bringing engineers, underwriters and brokers together, so it’s a great organisation to contribute to. Achieving my ACII qualification was also a big milestone as it was something I’d set as a personal challenge."

What motivated you to start the qualification?

"I’d always wanted to get more involved with underwriting, and the ACII was an important step toward that. Throughout my career, I’ve worked closely with underwriters, so I already understood their thinking processes, but I wanted to formalise that and deepen my knowledge.

When I started, I had three challenging young children at home, and I was also travelling frequently to offshore and onshore installations, so I completed my qualification over four years. I remember revising for exams on planes between site visits (better than having nice wine!). It was a real balancing act, but Chaucer supported me throughout: they funded the qualification and gave me study time. I knew I had to commit my own time as well, so I didn’t put pressure on myself. Slow and steady worked."

Tell us about your current role at Chaucer. What does your work involve?

"I’m Head of Risk Engineering in the Energy team and also support underwriting on certain construction accounts. Most of my work involves engineering risk assessments and performing engineering surveys around the world, from five‑star offshore installations to places where you’re sharing a shower with cockroaches and brown water! It definitely keeps things interesting."

What’s the toughest part of working offshore?

"Travelling by helicopter to offshore platforms is always the riskiest part. You have to be comfortable speaking up and making calls for your own safety during transit and while on the platform. I remember once about to take off in a helicopter with 18 people on board. The pilot kept trying to start the engine, but it wouldn’t fire up. After the third attempt, I just said, “We don’t have to go today.” Eventually the operator agreed there was an issue, and we didn’t fly. It’s moments like that where you realise the importance of trusting your instincts."

You were part of the team that launched Chaucer’s cyber capability. What was that like?

"That was before COVID, when the cyber team was just five of us starting from scratch. It was a great opportunity to build something new and combine my operational experience on industrial systems with the data side. Cyber risk is still a huge issue for the energy sector, so I stay close to developments in that area."

How has your risk engineering experience helped your underwriting?

"It’s been incredibly useful. After years of carrying out risk reviews, you develop a strong understanding of what matters, especially in the wording and technical detail of energy underwriting. I’ve also been very fortunate to work with excellent underwriters who’ve shared their knowledge generously. Knowing what underwriters want is critical when performing risk assessments."

What has kept you at Chaucer for 12 years?

"Chaucer has always encouraged me to try new things and follow my interests as they evolve. That support, alongside the chance to meet clients and build long‑term relationships, is one of the biggest reasons I’ve stayed. It’s not just about risk assessments; it’s about people, process, and trust."

After 17 years in insurance, what still excites you about the industry?

"Technology evolves constantly, and you learn something new every time. Whether it’s engineering, cyber, or underwriting, there’s always a fresh challenge. As a risk engineer, I need to work with the client to minimise the risk levels without jeopardising the relationship. That’s what keeps me motivated."

Congratulations, Athith!

We’re proud to celebrate Athith’s recent achievements and his ongoing contribution to Chaucer and the wider energy insurance market.