All change at RSA

See also: Brown takes the reins at RSA & Bridget's Blog

Bridget McIntyre’s forthcoming departure from RSA has caused shockwaves across the market.

The insurers UK chief executive has become an admired figure in the market in her three years at RSA, with many voices in the broker market citing her influence as a key driver in the battle to increase rates.

The timing of McIntyre's departure comes at a sensitive time for the the insurer. Speculation surrounding a takeover approach for RSA has been the talk of the City in recent weeks after its share price rose sharply amid rumours that rival insurer Zurich could be set to make a move on the business.

Cynics might suggest that her departure is in some way linked to an imminent sale. But others will simply agree with her decision to stand down and spend more time with her family, as RSA's statement explained.

“The group board agreed that it is the right time for new leadership to take the business forward,” the statement added.

Haste, thought to be a leading candidate to take charge at a major bank in the city, will look to McIntyre’s replacement, RSA UK’s chief operating officer Adrian Brown, a relatively unknown figure in the market, to continue to drive the business forward. Brown will have big shoes to fill according to those who were won over by McIntyre’s influence at RSA, and following its recent impressive interim results.

Her regular blogs for Insurancetimes.co.uk, Bridget’s Blog, have proven to be a hit amongst readers, and it is clear she will be missed. Despite not officially standing down until the end of the year, she is already being tipped to make a comeback in the market.