They say two heads are better than one – and Aviva Canada has boosted that theory with a double addition to its senior executive line-up.
The company has brought in both Garth Pepper (pictured left) and Pascal Dessureault (pictured right), both of whom will report into CEO Tracy Garrad.
Pepper has built a reputation as a seasoned insurance veteran within both the Canadian and North American commercial insurance and specialty community. His experience includes most recently being president, North America – middle market, global risk solutions, at Liberty Mutual.
Now, Pepper will take the role of managing director of Aviva Business Insurance, beginning on August 6. He will develop both the small to medium and middle market business.
Dessureault will take the role of chief public affairs, marketing and communications officer from August 19. He is known throughout the industry as an experienced public affairs leader and has built up a reputation for a deep understanding of both ESG and corporate strategy.
Most recently, he was with HSBC Canada where he was head of communications and public affairs, commercial banking. According to a Press release he led government relations strategy across a host of initiatives previously, and at Aviva Canada will aim to build the company’s brand and reputation.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Garth and Pascal to our business and to the executive team,” said Garrad. “As we continue to grow and transform our business, their expertise will be key in driving the focus, accountability and agility to execute and deliver our priorities for our customers, brokers and partners.”
The moves come shortly after Aviva Canada announced a new board chair, in the form of Thomas Neil Morrison – he will take the position next year. The chair designate joined Aviva Canada’s board on July 25 as an independent non-executive director (NED). Morrison has also held the independent NED position at Aviva Canada’s UK-headquartered parent Aviva Plc since June 17.
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