iFHP – Connecting health insurance leaders
Global challenges in health insurance demand a united effort. We connect members around the world to share knowledge and explore new solutions to the common challenges for health insurers everywhere.
Why

Since its founding in 1968, International Federation of Health Plans has been dedicated to advancing independent healthcare delivery and financing worldwide. We connect member organisations across the world, fostering collaboration through the exchange of knowledge, experiences and ideas. iFHP creates opportunities for international studies and professional education, empowering members to navigate the challenges of healthcare with innovation and shared expertise. Today, the Federation’s mission is to strengthen health systems by promoting collaboration and driving progress in the industry.

iFHP is an international network of health payers built on fraternity, collaboration and the creation of mutual value
Meet the team
Chris Watney
CEO
Chris is an experienced senior executive having spent more than twenty years in senior roles across a broad range of industries.

Prior to joining iFHP in 2020, he spent five and a half years as chief marketing officer at Southern Cross Health Society, New Zealand’s largest health insurer. Before working in health, Chris spent time in London and New Zealand in senior roles at Royal Bank of Scotland Insurance, AXA New Zealand and Genesis Energy. He also served on the board of Osteoporosis New Zealand, later Bone Health NZ. Chris is an Englishman by birth, a keen half-marathon runner and a liveryman of the Mercers’ Company.

Nicola Jedrej
Member Engagement Manager
Nicola has worked in events and communications across numerous sectors for 20 years, including natural resources, defence and pharma before joining the iFHP in June 2015.

With extensive global experience in large organisations, Nicola understands the importance of effective communication to support our members. As iFHP’s Member Engagement Manager, her primary role is engaging with our members, helping them make the most of iFHP’s meetings and resources. Nicola leverages her deep knowledge of our programmes and membership to provide information or connect them with our meetings, networks, and learning opportunities. Outside of work, she enjoys running, travelling, and might take on another marathon – maybe.

Sophie Jennings
Process Optimisation Specialist
Sophie is the Process Optimisation Specialist at the International Federation of Health Plans (iFHP), based in London.

Originally from New Zealand, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Social Work. Sophie has a background as a school social worker, where she supported young people and fostered their development. She joined iFHP in September 2022, focusing on improving operational processes. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, sports and reading.

Chinwe Onyema
Head of Programme Partnerships
Chinwe Onyema, MBA has over 15 years of experience in product development, marketing, communications and transformation in healthcare.

Chinwe held a number of key roles at Equinity and in one of the UK’s leading private healthcare providers , HCA Healthcare UK, where she led the advancement of digital healthcare delivery . Her experience spans business integration and governance of AI technologies, enterprise program development, and strategic partnership development.

Will Leonard
Head of Content Partnerships
Will Leonard has over 15 years of experience in healthcare education, partnerships, programme strategy, consultancy and stakeholder engagement.

During his time as Deputy Head of International at the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians, he led significant international programme expansions, established Pan-European medical examinations, accredited medical training centres and played a key role in growing global partnerships. He has also worked in the international development sector on donor funded projects and programmes and supported numerous organisations in building their international strategy and services. In his spare time, he is a keen hiker.

Join us for exclusive content and access to our growing network
Join us for exclusive content and access to our growing network