"I’m confident that the changes we’ve made to our structure will bring even greater focus on our key markets, helping to accelerate Aviva’s growth."
- Adam Winslow, Aviva UK & Ireland General Insurance chief executive
In a press release, the insurer noted that Major, Commercial Lines MD, has helped drive strong growth in Aviva’s commercial lines business during his five-year tenure, evidenced by this year’s H1 results.
To further accelerate this growth, Aviva has said its commercial lines business will now be organised around two core commercial markets - SME (including mid-market, digital, regional specialty lines, micro and direct) and Global Corporate & Specialty (GCS). Both business units will operate from a single underwriting framework and strategy.
Moreover, the insurer has said that its approach to distribution, with a single view of broker relationships and a joined-up strategy led by its distribution team, will remain in place. Aviva believes this approach is well suited to further capitalise on its growth ambitions with established leaders in both markets.
Gareth Hemming will become UKGI Distribution & SME managing director, leading the SME business. This is in addition to his responsibilities as chief distribution officer.
Whereas, Matt Washington will become UKGI Commercial Lines Underwriting & GCS managing director, leading a single underwriting function for commercial lines whilst maintaining the business’ underwriting discipline and focus as it continues to grow.
Meanwhile, in personal lines, Simon Mobey, Aviva Private Clients (APC) managing director, has opted to take early retirement at the end of this year. Mobey has been critical to the success of Aviva’s extended private clients' team, according to the insurer.
Ann Owen, current APC chief underwriting officer, is set to succeed Mobey as managing director. Owen has worked with Mobey and the APC team for several years and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role as Aviva looks to become “unrivalled” as market leader in high-net-worth personal lines.
READ MORE: Aviva declared “unrivalled” as market leader in high-net-worth personal lines
Commenting on the reshuffle, Adam Winslow, Aviva UK & Ireland General Insurance chief executive, has said:
“We are sorry to see Nick and Simon go. Nick has been instrumental in driving our commercial lines growth and we wish him well and thank him for his contribution to Aviva. Simon has been critical to the success of setting up and leading our extended private clients team and we wish him every success for the future.
“I’m confident that the changes we’ve made to our structure will bring even greater focus on our key markets, helping to accelerate Aviva’s growth. They will also support our appetite for new business, place additional emphasis and attention on the commitments we’ve made to brokers, and deliver on our ambitious plans for our customers.”
