Carolyn Callan (pictured), who joined Covéa Insurance in November 2017 as SME (small- and medium-sized enterprises) & schemes head, has been promoted to commercial lines & HNW (high net worth) director.
Effective on May 01, the appointment will see Callan take over from Simon Cooter before his departure from the UK underwriting business of French mutual insurance group Covéa in August. Until then the latter will work with his successor, who is also joining the executive committee, to ensure a smooth transition.
“This is a great business that is built on fantastic people and relationships and that’s something that won’t change. I’m looking forward to working closely with the team to continue to build on the strong legacy that Simon leaves behind.”
Meanwhile her predecessor has nothing but nice words for the elevated executive.
Cooter noted: “I’m really pleased that Carolyn has been appointed to succeed me. Ever since she joined the business she has had a hugely positive impact, both as part of the team and in her work with our broker partners.
“It was really important to me that we had an orderly and positive transition and my priority now is to help Carolyn as she takes over and then to watch from the sidelines as the team prospers. I’ve loved my six years at Covéa and I am as sad to be leaving such a great team as I am excited about the things I do next!”
According to Covéa Insurance chief executive James Reader, they undertook an extensive search over the last six months to find Cooter’s replacement.
“Carolyn’s appointment is recognition of her undoubted leadership abilities and the fantastic impact she’s made on our business in the 17 months she’s been with us,” said the CEO. “Our commercial lines & HNW business has made great progress under Simon’s leadership and I know that our people and broker partners will welcome Carolyn as she leads the business on to bigger and better things.”
