AXA names new UK & Ireland CEO

The European insurance giant AXA has today announced the appointment of Tara Foley as chief executive officer of AXA UK & Ireland.

In a Press release, AXA revealed that subject to regulatory approval, Foley will officially take on her new role on September 01 after almost three years as CEO of AXA UK Retail Insurance. In her new role, she will lead the implementation of AXA UK & Ireland’s ‘2024 to 2026 Strategy’, as well as heading up the executive team and having oversight over AXA’s UK and Ireland business units.

In her time as CEO of AXA UK Retail Insurance, Foley oversaw several key projects, including the launch of digital disrupter Moja and the delivery of a comprehensive transformation programme. Before joining AXA, she served with Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) for 12 years, where she held several senior positions both in banking and insurance. Prior to LBG, she held roles at Deutsche Bank and Accenture.

Commenting on her appointment, Foley said: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to take up the role of AXA UK & Ireland CEO and lead this outstanding team of talented and dedicated people. Together, we will build upon our many successes to deliver on the next stage of our strategy, continue to grow the business and provide the best products and services for our customers and clients.”

Foley succeeds Claudio Gienal who is stepping into a new role as chief transformation officer for AXA European Markets and Health, where he will deliver on a key strand of AXA’s strategic, operational and financial ambition by driving business and technological transformation. In addition, Gienal will oversee and drive the global Business Communities, drawing together expertise across AXA to share best practices.

AXA noted that Gienal will be taking on this role on September 01, remaining with AXA UK & Ireland until then to support a smooth transition.

Mark Pain, chairman at AXA UK also commented on the news and said the business is “delighted” to welcome Foley as the new CEO of AXA UK & Ireland. He described the incoming CEO as a “dynamic and purpose-driven leader”, citing her successful transformation of the AXA Retail business for both customers and colleagues.

“With her exceptional leadership skills and understanding of the insurance landscape combined with her diverse customer-centric experience,” he said, “we are confident that AXA UK & Ireland will continue to thrive and grow under her guidance.”

Pain also paid tribute to Gienal, and said: “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Claudio for his excellent leadership of AXA UK & Ireland. Over the past five years he has overseen the company’s largest transformation programme, built a competitive business and delivered significantly improved performance. We wish him all the best for his new role in AXA European Markets and Health.”