Aviva new chief Hodges looks for second-in-command

Aviva’s chief executive in-waiting Mark Hodges is expected to appoint a second-in-command within the next few weeks.

Hodges officially takes over from current general insurance chief executive Igal Mayer in the new year, but market sources say he is already planning ahead.

Speculation is centring on when, rather than if, Hodges appoints lieutenants to run the general insurance and life side of the business. Both arms have been combined under Hodges’ command.

Hodges has spoken to a number of key partners.

Jelf chief executive Alex Alway has said he has had a phone call from Hodges and the conversation was “positive”. He said: “[He phoned] to assure me that it is business as usual and he is focused on the needs of the clients and brokers.”