AXA XL has promoted a 15-year strategic accounts specialist into a new global partnership role, while Argenta has recruited a former Lloyd’s and Direct Line chief of staff and Targa Telematics has hired a telematics veteran to lead UK insurance.
Samantha Hazlewood (pictured top, left) will become head of AXA Group Partnerships and Strategic Client Management for AXA XL, effective February 1.
In the role, Hazlewood will oversee relationships with AXA’s most strategic accounts worldwide, working across AXA to support access to tailored solutions.
“Samantha’s extensive industry expertise and proven track record of managing strategic accounts over the past 15 years position her uniquely for this position,” Manuel Meier, chief client officer, said.
Hazlewood joined AXA in 2012 and has held roles in business development and partnerships across AXA Group, AXA Partners and AXA XL. Most recently, she served as global enterprise director and head of utilities and energy sector within AXA’s Global Enterprise Management team.
Argenta has announced two appointments, with Alexandra Hayes (pictured top, centre) joining at the start of January 2026 and Sweta Tzimopoulos (pictured top, right) set to join later in 2026, with a start date to be confirmed.
Hayes has been appointed head of group strategy & execution and chief of staff, reporting to CEO Nick Moore. She will work with the senior management group to deliver group priorities and ensure execution of strategic objectives. Hayes most recently served as chief of staff to the CEO at Direct Line Group, supporting delivery of improved results and work linked to Aviva’s successful bid to acquire the group. Before that, she was chief of staff to the CEO at Lloyd’s, working on the market’s five-year strategic plan. Hayes began her career at JP Morgan after serving as an officer in the British Army’s Royal Engineers.
Tzimopoulos was appointed chief distribution officer, also reporting to Moore. She will lead distribution strategy, focusing on broker relationships and new channels.
“We are delighted to welcome Alex and Sweta to Argenta. Their track record and depth of experience will strengthen our team as we continue to execute our strategic priorities,” said Moore.
Targa Telematics has appointed Adam Gooch (pictured immediately above) director of insurance in the UK. It cited rising demand and use cases for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) data for connected insurance, and across car, van and commercial vehicle markets.
Gooch has more than 20 years of experience across telematics and Insurtech providers, legal services and major insurers, including senior roles at UK telematics service providers covering insurer relations, product development, operations and marketing.
