Brisbane-based RACQ Insurance has confirmed the appointment of Allianz executive John Myler as CEO.

As reported in a Breaking News bulletin last week, he will start his new role in May.

Group CEO Ian Gillespie told insuranceNEWS.com.au an international search was carried out to find a replacement for Bradley Heath, who announced his resignation in July and stepped down at the end of September.

Mr Myler was selected “because of his extensive and diverse insurance experience, as well as his marketing and digital skills”.

“He has prior experience at CEO level in a large group where collaboration across divisions is important, as it is in the RACQ group,” Mr Gillespie said. “We believe he is ideally suited to our needs and we look forward to him joining the group executive team.”

RACQ Chief Development Officer Chris Walsh is Acting CEO for RACQ Insurance, and will remain in the role until Mr Myler starts.

Mr Myler has been with Allianz for more than a decade, most recently as chief market manager. Before that he was Australia and New Zealand CEO for Allianz Global Assistance and spent more than six years as Allianz’s GM direct and life insurance.

He has also held marketing positions with Shannons Insurance and APIA.