QBE has attempted to assure brokers that its plans off shore 700 jobs will not affect their service even though the claims and operations divisions will be impacted by the streamlining plans.
This comes after group CEO John Neal yesterday admitted that it would off shore at least 700 jobs, leading to job cuts in Australia, North America, and Europe.
A spokesman told Insurance Business that brokers would be kept well-informed of the insurer’s plans.
"QBE has a proud history of working with our Intermediary partners to ensure they are informed of any changes designed to improve service to them and importantly their clients when they require the provision of claim services.
“As we finalise plans intermediaries will be provided with key updates on service changes. Our business relationship managers will be equipped to answer questions and ensure the excellent provision of service continues for our valued business partners."
In reporting the full year results for 2012, QBE yesterday explained the claims, operations, finance, IT, HR, and procurement divisions will be affected by the latest cost-cutting initiative, as it strives to deliver annual run-rate benefits of at least $250m. However, the insurer also spoke of plans to create centres of excellence and group procurement operation units.
“What we are really looking to do is simplify and standardise the way in which we do business," Neal explained. "In many instances we do things in five different ways and sometimes more than five different ways. It’s not just about cost for us. If we can standardise the way in which we do business, we create a scalable platform for future growth.”
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