Allianz UK has announced the appointment of Isabella Von Mesterhazy as the new managing director for its specialty business, effective Dec. 1, 2024, pending regulatory approval. Von Mesterhazy succeeds Kieran O’Keeffe, who is set to retire at the end of the year.
In her new role, Von Mesterhazy will oversee Allianz’s specialty division, which includes leading pet insurance brands Petplan, Petplan Equine, and LV= Pet. Reporting directly to Allianz UK CEO Colm Holmes, she will join the Allianz UK executive committee, guiding a key segment of the company.
“Allianz Specialty is an important arm of the UK business and has achieved consistently strong performance figures throughout 2024 and in previous years. Established over 48 years ago, Petplan is the UK’s number one pet insurer, insuring over 1.3 million pets and supporting 1,200 animal charities,” a news release noted.
“It’s fantastic news that Bella has taken up the reins for the specialty arm of Allianz,” Holmes said. “She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the industry to this role and I look forward to working with her within our executive committee.”
A veteran of Allianz since 2011, Von Mesterhazy has already played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s specialty business, it was suggested. From her initial role as head of marketing and sales for Petplan and Allianz Pet to her most recent position as director of trading for Allianz Specialty, she has driven customer-focused initiatives and brand development, according to the news release.
“Within my time at Petplan I have seen first-hand the knowledge and dedication of the Petplan team in assisting our customers and their pets, often in difficult and stressful times, where their compassion and care shines through,” Von Mesterhazy said. “I look forward to continuing the momentum in moving the brand forward and ensuring that our customers remain at the heart of the business.”
The company has initiated the recruitment process for a new director of trading for Allianz Specialty, with further announcements expected soon.
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