Ace Group has appointed Jeslyn Tan to the new role of Regional Head of Agency Asia-Pacific, based in Thailand.

Ms Tan was previously AIG VP and head of agency and broker channel management.

Ace Regional President Juan Luis Ortega says creation of the role reflects the business’ “ambitious goal” of diversifying its Asia-Pacific distribution channels.

Takeovers have been a critical part of that strategy, including those of Jerneh Insurance in Malaysia in 2010, Asuransi Jaya Proteksi in Indonesia in 2012 and Siam Commercial Samaggi Insurance in Thailand last year.

Mr Ortega says Ms Tan will develop a “systematic approach to business development within the agency channel, based on sound portfolio management fundamentals”.

“With deep expertise in channel management [and] business development, complemented by strong human resources and training skills, Jeslyn is well equipped to lead the growth and development of our agency distribution,” he said.

Ms Tan has previously worked as head of operations and customer service for Ace’s accident and health division.