Les Archibald appointed to manage expansion

Allianz Commercial is looking to expand in the north east by opening a Newcastle office.

The company is searching for premises in the city centre and aims to have a team in place within the next six months.

Allianz has appointed Les Archibald to manage the operation. Archibald joins Allianz from Primary General & Rural Insurance.

Archibald will oversee broker development in the north east and lead Allianz Commercial's underwriting and new business teams in the region.

Chris Hanks, general manager of Allianz Commercial, said: "This is an exciting development which proves our long-term commitment to local broker markets. To be successful in the UK commercial sector we firmly believe you need a strong regional network that keeps underwriters and decision-makers close to the customer.

"We are delighted to have secured Les' services and are confident that his knowledge of the local market will help us attain the profitable growth that we are looking for in this region."

Archibald said: "I'm delighted to be joining Allianz Commercial at such an exciting time in the company’s development."