Andy Briggs takes top job at Friends less than a year after taking over as Lloyds insurance boss

Lloyds Banking Group's general insurance chief executive, Andy Briggs, is to become the new chief executive of Friends Provident.

Briggs's appointment means Trevor Matthews will assume a new role of vice chairman.

Briggs is expected to join within the next six months. He replaced Phil Loney as Lloyds GI boss in February 2010. Prior to Lloyds, Briggs was chief executive of Scottish Widows.

Friends Provident was acquired by Resolution, a consolidation vehicle formed by entrepreneur Clive Cowdery, in 2009 for £1.8bn.

Briggs said: "I have watched the role Resolution has played in consolidating the UK life sector with interest and am excited about leading the executive team of Friends. We have a fantastic opportunity to create a major player that delivers real value for customers and shareholders. I am looking forward to joining a group of hard working, enthusiastic people."

Matthews plans to return with his family to Australia within the next three years.

"I am thoroughly enjoying my time at Friends and am excited about my continuing role," said Matthews.

"I think Andy will be a tremendous asset to the Group and I am looking forward to working with him and promoting Friends to all our stakeholders."