Culmer first joined Aviva as a non-executive director in September 2019 and has served as Aviva’s senior independent non-executive director since January 2020. He is also a non-executive director of Rolls Royce Holdings Plc. Culmer has held a variety of leadership positions in insurance and broader financial services roles including previously serving as the chief financial officer of Lloyd’s Banking Group plc and chief financial officer of RSA Insurance Group plc, as well as holding senior positions at Zurich Financial Services and Prudential plc.
His appointment is the culmination of a thorough external and internal selection process led by the nomination and governance committee of the board, and has been approved by the PRA and the FCA. The board has now initiated a process to appoint a senior independent non-executive director to succeed Culmer.
Commenting on this appointment Culmer said he is honoured to be appointed to this role and expressed his thanks to Sir Montague for his service to Aviva over the last seven years and his leadership during a period of considerable change for the organisation. He noted that Aviva’s purpose has never been more important than it is today and said he will work closely with all Aviva’s management team to ensure that the business continues to be there to support and deliver for its customers, colleagues and shareholders.
In a statement, Sir Montague said: “After five years as chairman, and with a refreshed board in place, it is the right time for me to step down. George has deep experience of insurance and financial services and is an outstanding choice to succeed me. Aviva has a strong franchise, a purpose that has never been more relevant and great opportunities for the future. It has been a privilege to serve as chairman.”
