QBE Group CEO Andrew Horton says he wants the insurer’s divisions to work more closely together and is targeting stability and possible growth in the US market.

He also sees growth potential in Australian personal lines, where QBE trails the likes of Suncorp and IAG.

The former UK-based Beazley chief relocated to Australia earlier this month, having started in the role remotely from September.

He replaced interim chief Richard Pryce who had taken the helm following the sudden departure of Pat Regan last year.

Mr Horton says he wants to spend time getting to know the local business, its people and partners, but gave an indication of his early thoughts in an interview with insuranceNEWS.com.au on Friday.

He singled out climate change, insurance affordability and people and culture as key industry challenges that he wants QBE to take a leading position on.

See Analysis.