QBE has appointed two GMs to its intermediary distribution leadership team, and created two new portfolios.

Australian and New Zealand Operations CEO Vivek Bhatia says the changes will help the insurer simplify its operating model and take a more customer-centric approach.

Rebecca Engel, most recently at NAB, has been appointed GM Underwriting Agencies, leading a new standalone underwriting agencies team and reporting to EGM Intermediary Distribution Jason Clarke.

Dean Cullen will take on the role of GM Specialty – including aviation, marine, construction, warranty and professional lines – and will also report to Mr Clarke.

Mr Cullen most recently led QBE’s travel, motor trades and motorcycle businesses, and these teams will be incorporated into the specialty team.

QBE also announced the creation of two new portfolios. A People Risk team has been created, headed up by GM Adam Farr, combining workers’ compensation and accident and health.

Financial institutions and direct consumer business units will combine as Consumer, Affinity and Banking Partnerships, in an expanded portfolio for GM Eleanor Debelle.

Ms Debelle and Mr Farr will continue to report to EGM Consumer and Retail Partners Andrew Broughton.

Mr Bhatia says the changes will help teams take a more customer-centric approach.

“Our strategy is about putting the customer at the heart of what we do and these changes mean we will be organised in a better way to deliver on that,” he said.

The changes take effect from February 19.

More details in our regular Monday bulletin.