Following the announcement in November that the company was set to expand its regional branch network, Allianz Commercial has confirmed that its Newcastle office is now open for business.
The new branch, based at Hadrian House in the City centre, will be managed by Les Archibald, who joined Allianz in November from Primary General & Rural Insurance where he had been underwriting director for the past two-and-a-half years.
In addition, four new recruits have joined the company to maximise opportunities and meet the needs of the local market. Bill Redhead, Mike Kenny and Chris McAloon will make up the property, casualty and motor trade underwriting team, with Lee Makin taking the role of motor fleet underwriter.
Commenting on the news, Simon McGinn, director of commercial broker markets at Allianz, said: “To be successful in the UK commercial sector, we firmly believe in a strong regional network that keeps underwriters and decision-makers close to the customer. The Newcastle office proves Allianz Commercial’s long-term commitment to local broker markets.
“We have been keen to have a presence in Newcastle for some time but have been determined to wait until we could bring in the right calibre of people. Les and his team have a wealth of experience and their knowledge of the local market will be crucial in helping us achieve the profitable growth that we believe is attainable in the North-East.”
Branch development manager, Les Archibald, added: “I’m delighted with the team we have put in place and excited by the challenge of developing our business in the area. Our aim is to make Allianz Commercial a loyalty-leader in the region and help the company towards its goal of being the best commercial insurer in the UK.”
Source : Allianz Press Release
