AXA UK & Ireland today announces the creation of a new general insurance business, AXA Insurance UK, bringing together its UK Commercial and Retail business units under a single leadership structure.
The new unified commercial and personal lines business will be led by AXA Commercial CEO Jon Walker, who assumes the role of CEO, AXA Insurance UK. Jon has overseen AXA’s Retail business on an interim basis since the end of last year.
The move strengthens AXA UK & Ireland’s position as a growing, technically brilliant and customer-focused insurer.
"Bringing our UK Commercial and Retail businesses together as AXA Insurance is a significant step forward for AXA UK & Ireland. Under Jon Walker’s leadership, Retail and Commercial will continue to serve their customers with the same focus and this unified general insurance business will be simpler, stronger and more agile as well as better positioned to compete, grow and deliver for our customers and partners.
"By combining our expertise across personal and commercial lines, we will enhance our technical capabilities, accelerate the use of technology and AI and scale best practice across the business. This move strengthens our competitive position and creates a more dynamic and attractive environment to work."
- Tara Foley, CEO at AXA UK & Ireland
As one general insurance business, AXA Insurance UK will benefit from:
"Creating a unified general insurance business gives us greater scale, sharper focus and the ability to respond more effectively to changing market dynamics.
"Commercial and Retail will continue to serve distinct customer needs and operate in different market contexts. But by working more closely together, we will create a more resilient and competitive organisation.
"I’m proud of how our teams have continued to deliver during this period of review. Their focus and professionalism give us a strong platform as we move forward with clarity and purpose."
- Jon Walker, CEO at AXA Insurance UK
A Managing Director for Retail and a Managing Director for Commercial have been appointed to ensure continued focus on these markets and customers. Both Managing Directors report to Jon Walker.
Julie Barbey will join as Managing Director - Retail in May from AXA France. Julie brings strong experience in the Retail market, having led AXA France’s largest regional Retail team.
Mike Crane has been appointed Managing Director - Commercial having led the AXA Commercial SME and Specialty teams. Mike has significant experience leading both Commercial and Retail businesses and his knowledge of these markets will be invaluable within the new AXA Insurance UK structure.