A number of significant leadership changes have been announced across the UK insurance sector, highlighting a continued focus on strategic growth, customer engagement, and international expansion.
Allianz Strengthens UK Commercial Leadership
Allianz Commercial has confirmed two key appointments within its UK commercial business, solidifying its leadership structure.
Graham Stait has been formally named Director of UK Markets after serving in the position on an interim basis. In this expanded role, he will lead the mid-market segment, overseeing distribution, trading performance, and broker engagement. With over 17 years at Allianz, Stait brings a wealth of experience across claims, operations, and trading.
In a separate appointment, Luke Baker has been confirmed as Director UK Global and UK Branch Manager of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE (AGCS), following regulatory approval. Since joining Allianz in 2021, Baker has brought nearly 25 years of insurance expertise spanning broking and underwriting across international markets. His appointment reinforces the firm’s focus on managing complex, large corporate risks.
Reassured Appoints Inaugural Chief Customer Officer
Life insurance broker Reassured has announced the appointment of co-founder and former Chief Operating Officer Laura Benton to the newly created position of Chief Customer Officer.
In her new role, Benton will lead the development and execution of the company’s customer strategy, which includes leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics to enhance and personalise the customer journey. She will also oversee product innovation, customer outcomes, complaints handling, quality assurance, and feedback processes.
Benton continues to serve on Reassured’s board and reports directly to CEO Mark Townsend, as the company continues its rapid growth in the life insurance market.
Everest Insurance International Names Chief Commercial Officer
Everest Insurance International has appointed Mark Shaw as Chief Commercial Officer, responsible for steering the company’s international distribution strategy and client engagement initiatives.
Shaw joined Everest in 2022 and has held pivotal roles including UK Commercial Director and Global Account Lead. With more than two decades of experience in underwriting, distribution, and commercial strategy, Shaw will now focus on aligning the firm’s global capabilities, strengthening broker and client relationships, and expanding its distribution leadership team.
