Aviva makes senior broking appointment as new changes announced

Aviva has announced that Michelle Taylor is being given a wider broking remit as part of several changes at the insurer.

Taylor, who had been strategic accounts director, will move into the role of broker distribution director and take responsibility for the broking development teams.

Despite the shift in positions, she will continue to be in charge of strategic accounts, new business and bid and deal management teams.

Taylor will report to Dave Martin, managing director for UK commercial lines and chief distribution officer.

Martin said: “I am thrilled that she will be stepping into this expanded role that simplifies further our face to market.

“Taylor is recognised and respected across the broker community and it’s fantastic that we have been able to bring together Aviva’s broker facing teams under one leadership team.”

Claims appointment

The move comes due to Ryan Birbeck being appointed commercial claims director to cover Kelly Whittington’s role when she begins maternity leave later this year.

Birbeck, who previously held the role of broker and client development director, will report to Waseem Malik, chief claims officer for UK and Ireland general insurance.

Malik said: “I am delighted that Birbeck will be leading the team while Whittington is on maternity leave.

“Birbeck has a wealth of experience in commercial lines and this is a brilliant opportunity for him to continue his work within the broker community, with a new focus on claims.

“We are confident that his skills and broker relationships will make him a valuable addition to the team and we wish Whittington all the very best at this special time.”