Ex-Groupama executive to be groomed as Homer's replacement

Amanda Blanc has quit insurer Groupama to take up a key position at Towergate, where she will be groomed as chief executive Andy Homer's replacement.

It is believed that Blanc and Towergate managing director for the North Clive Nathan are being moulded as successors to the formidable partnership of Homer and chairman Peter Cullum.

Towergate confirmed it would give details of a major management overhaul in April, although it is understood that both Homer and Cullum will continue to run the operation for the foreseeable future.

A source close to Towergate said: "Blanc and Nathan represent the next generation of Towergate. Cullum and Homer have no plans to stand aside just yet, but will entrust their legacy to the pair when they do."

Blanc has been named executive director, but details of her precise role will not be made public until April.

Cullum told Insurance Times: "We are delighted to welcome Amanda to the group and are positive she will play a crucial role in our future. It is no secret we are in the throes of a major restructure and expect to be in a position to make a major announcement on this in April."

Both Blanc and Nathan have previously worked under Homer at Commercial Union and AXA.

Homer said: "I have worked with Amanda [Blanc] at various stages in my career and have every confidence she will prove a huge asset to Towergate."

Groupama said it will be looking to identify a replacement for Blanc over the coming weeks.