Insurance Times rounds up the most significant appointments, hires and leadership developments from 27 April to 1 May 2026
As the early May bank holiday approaches some big moves shook up the industry this week. This started with the announcement that Jensten Group appointed Geo Underwriting boss Jaime Swindle as its new chief executive for product and distribution.
A date for her arrival is still to be confirmed. However, the move completes the group’s strategic restructure and changes to its executive team, which were announced last week (20 April 2026).
Then, Zurich UK appointed Mark McCausland as its new chief operating officer.
Joining from his role as global head of transformation at Chubb, his appointment comes as the insurer looks to drive forward major strategic initiatives that will address the demands of customers and distributors.
There was also a major leadership shakeup from Allianz UK this week as the insurer announced that Nick Hobbs will step down from his role as chief distribution officer and chairman of Allianz Engineering Inspection Services.
In further insurer news, Covéa Insurance made two leadership appointments for its personal lines team.
This includes Jamie McCann being appointed as head of personal lines and Jade Midgley being promoted to head of trading for personal lines after 23 years at the insurer.
Rounding off this week’s roster, specialist commercial insurer Peach appointed Wayne Jefferson as distribution manager.
Joining from his position as head of eTrading at software house Applied Systems, Jefferson will be responsible for leading the development and execution of the MGA’s distribution strategy, strengthening engagement with key broker partners and identifying new opportunities to expand market reach.
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