STEVE Wood is stepping down as managing director of the Gloucester-based Ecclesiastical Group's general insurance businesses in the UK having decided to pursue fresh opportunities
The move is part of major changes in Ecclesiastical's management structure and senior leadership team following on from the appointment of Mark Hews as group chief executive last month.
The key changes include the creation of the role of a deputy group chief executive, and the establishment of a new group structure with three business divisions – general insurance, investment management, and broking and advisory.
Jacinta Whyte, pictured, is appointed deputy group chief executive and an executive director of Ecclesiastical, with responsibility for the group's general insurance operations worldwide.
She will also continue as general manager and chief agent of Ecclesiastical's Canadian business. David Lane (CEO Ecclesiastical Ireland) and Andrew Moon (CEO Ansvar Australia) will continue to run the group's Irish and Australian operations and will be reporting into Jacinta. In addition, she will assume the role of interim managing director of Ecclesiastical's UK general insurance business with immediate effect.
Steve Woods leaves after almost eight years with Ecclesiastical. The group said he had made a considerable contribution.
Mark Hews, group chief executive, said: "I'm delighted with Jacinta's appointment. She brings a wealth of experience. I'm also pleased that she has agreed to assume direct control over the UK general insurance business while we complete our search for a successor to Steve.
"The board and I personally would like to thank Steve Wood for his contribution to Ecclesiastical and wish him all the best as he moves on to new opportunities."
Steve Wood said: "After nearly eight years with Ecclesiastical, Mark and I have concluded that it is time for a fresh start. I have enjoyed my time at the company, and I wish Mark and the whole Ecclesiastical team all the very best for the future."
Kevin Jones, pictured, will take up a new role as group strategy and corporate affairs director. Recruitment will start for the roles of group chief underwriting officer and group chief risk officer.
