Allianz is reshaping its senior leadership across the UK and global markets, underscoring its commitment to growth, client engagement, and competitive excellence. The series of high-profile appointments reflect the company’s focus on strengthening its leadership pipeline and positioning itself for sustained expansion.
Leadership Changes in the UK
Allianz UK has confirmed a series of executive appointments effective December 1, aimed at reinforcing leadership continuity and supporting the company’s long-term strategy.
- Ulf Lange, currently Chief Financial Officer, will take on the role of Managing Director of Personal Lines. Since joining Allianz UK in 2023, Lange has played a pivotal role in the company’s financial performance. In his new capacity, he will lead the next stage of growth for the personal lines division while ensuring continued profitability.
- Michael Ruf, currently with Allianz SE in Munich, will succeed Lange as Chief Financial Officer. Bringing more than a decade of senior finance experience within the Allianz Group, Ruf will be responsible for steering Allianz UK’s financial strategy through its next phase of development.
- Serge Raffard, currently Managing Director of Personal Lines, will transition to a new global role as General Manager, spearheading Allianz’s expansion in India.
- Suzanne Scott joins Allianz UK as Chief People and Culture Officer, succeeding Julie Harrison, who is stepping down after five years with the company. Scott previously served as Chief People and Corporate Responsibility Officer at AXA UK and Ireland, where she led several major cultural and talent initiatives.
Additionally, David Kelly will join Allianz UK in early 2026 as Chief Audit Officer, moving from Brit Insurance to succeed Matt Cox, who became Chief Claims Officer earlier this year.
Global Appointments Strengthen Market Engagement
At the global level, Allianz Commercial has announced a new board structure, effective January 1, 2026, designed to deepen collaboration with brokers and clients across international markets.
- Jeremy Sharpe, currently Global Head of Distribution, will join the board of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE as Chief Distribution Officer. In this role, Sharpe will oversee global client and broker management, distribution strategy, and the company’s multinational insurance operations.
- Shanil Williams will continue as President, Commercial, Americas, maintaining leadership across key markets in the region.
- Dirk Vogler, outgoing Chief Regions Officer, International, will move into a new senior role within the Allianz Group, to be announced later this year.
