Jane Hayes replaces Alan Fairhead

Jane Hayes

Zurich has appointed Jane Hayes (pictured) as general insurance chief underwriting officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and the company’s Ireland-based insurer Zurich Insurance plc.

She replaces Alan Fairhead, who was appointed Zurich’s group general insurance chief underwriting officer in October 2015.

Hayes will be based in Dublin and will report to Fairhead and EMEA general insurance chief executive Patrick Manley.

Hayes, who joined Zurich in 1999, was previously global underwriting technical director for general insurance and global corporate underwriting business partner.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.