A series of senior leadership appointments have been announced across the insurance sector.
Allianz Commercial has confirmed two permanent appointments within its UK commercial leadership team.
Graham Stait (pictured above, left) has been appointed director UK markets, following a period of serving in the role on an interim basis. In his expanded remit, Stait will oversee the mid-market segment, with responsibility for distribution, trading performance and broker engagement. He brings more than 17 years of experience with Allianz, having held roles across claims, operations and trading.
Meanwhile, Luke Baker has been named director UK global and UK branch manager of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty SE (AGCS) UK branch, following regulatory approval. Baker, who joined Allianz in 2021, has nearly 25 years of insurance market experience across both broking and underwriting. He has held senior roles across international markets and brings a strong understanding of large corporate risks.
Reassured, the UK’s largest life insurance broker, has appointed Laura Benton (pictured above, centre) to the newly created position of chief customer officer.
Benton, a co-founder of Reassured and former chief operating officer, will lead the firm’s customer strategy as it continues to expand its reach in the life insurance market.
In her new role, Benton will oversee the development of a comprehensive customer engagement programme, including the use of artificial intelligence and data analytics to personalise customer journeys. She will also lead on product development, while continuing to manage customer outcomes, complaints, quality assurance, and feedback functions. Benton remains on the company’s board and reports directly to CEO Mark Townsend.
Everest Insurance International has appointed Mark Shaw (pictured above, right) as chief commercial officer, with responsibility for leading the company’s international distribution strategy and client engagement model.
Shaw joined Everest in 2022 and has held key roles including UK commercial director and global account lead. He has more than 20 years of industry experience across underwriting, distribution and commercial strategy.
In his new role, Shaw will be tasked with aligning the firm’s international capabilities, deepening broker and client relationships, and overseeing further expansion of the distribution leadership team.
