Covéa UK has announced that Georges De Macedo will step down as CEO after nearly two years in the role. He will return to France but remain actively involved with the company as a member of the UK board, continuing to provide strategic oversight.
Xavier Laurent, who joins from Covéa Group, has been appointed as De Macedo’s successor, subject to regulatory approval. He has already joined the executive team and is working closely with De Macedo during a three-month transition period to ensure a smooth handover.
Board chair Chris Moat praised De Macedo’s leadership and highlighted the value of his continued presence on the board, noting that it will bring both continuity and strategic insight. He also welcomed Laurent, emphasising his extensive experience as a strong platform for guiding Covéa UK through its next phase of growth.
Leadership Change Amid Industry Shifts
Leadership transitions at UK insurers are receiving heightened attention as the sector grapples with inflation-driven claims costs, regulatory challenges, and evolving customer expectations. Continuity is especially vital in general insurance, where long-term relationships with brokers, partners, and policyholders are critical to growth and retention. Laurent’s appointment from within Covéa Group underscores a deliberate strategy to maintain stability while aligning with the group’s broader ambitions.
This move follows a series of leadership and structural changes across the UK insurance market. Aviva, under Amanda Blanc, has sharpened its focus on core markets and divestments. Direct Line Group has undergone board-level changes after profit pressures tied to motor claims inflation, while RSA continues to adapt its UK and Ireland business under Intact Financial’s ownership.
Industry analysts note that insurers are expected to accelerate efficiency initiatives, digital adoption, and claims transformation, while maintaining pricing discipline and customer loyalty. Against this backdrop, Covéa UK’s leadership transition—combining internal experience with fresh strategic direction—positions the company to strengthen its competitive edge in a shifting market landscape.
