By: 7 July 2020
New Aviva CEO Amanda Blanc sets insurer’s sights on leading industry

New Aviva chief executive officer Amanda Blanc wants the insurer to lead the “industry again” and become the first choice for its customers and partners.

Blanc has taken over as chief executive officer from Maurice Tulloch, who stepped down and retired from his position on the Aviva board due to family health reasons.

Commenting on her appointment, Blanc, who was appointed to the Aviva board as an independent non-executive director in January and chairs the customer, conduct and reputation committee, said: “Aviva is a great company, full of great people, and I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to help shape its future.”

“I want Aviva to be the leader in our industry again and the first choice for our customers and partners. My focus will be on achieving that for the benefit of all of our stakeholders.”

“We will look at all our strategic opportunities, and at pace. I have been on the Aviva board since the start of this year and have a good understanding of where the business has its strengths and what actions we should take across our portfolio.”

George Culmer, chairman of Aviva, said: “I would like to thank Maurice for his valuable contribution over many years with Aviva.”

The board and I were saddened to hear of the personal reasons behind his desire to step down and we wish him and his family the very best for the future.”

“We are delighted that Amanda will be our new CEO. The board was unanimous in endorsing her appointment. I know she will bring real dynamism to Aviva and re-establish our credentials as a high-performing, innovative and customer-centric business.”

Tulloch has been placed on gardening leave until January 2021 and will assist Blanc with the transition.

Former Zurich executive Blanc has taken on several appointments since she left the insurer last year, including roles at RightIndem, Trov and ERS.

The former chair of the Association of British Insurers and president of the Chartered Insurance Institute will step down from all of her current non-executive commitments following her appointment.