QBE’s search for a new CFO is over, with UK insurance executive Pat Regan to fill the role from June.

He joins the Australian global insurer from Aviva UK, where he was CFO. He was also CFO at Willis from 2006 to 2010 and has held senior positions at Royal & Sun Alliance, Axa UK and GE.

Mr Regan replaces Neil Drabsch, whose retirement this month was postponed when nominated successor Steven Burns decided instead to take up a part-time role.

According to UK reports, Mr Regan was popular among Aviva investors and employees but was disappointed at missing out on the group’s CEO role in 2012.

Meanwhile, Uwe Schoberth has been appointed Head of Global Distribution for QBE Group, replacing Mike Scala.

He joins from XL, where he was MD, Executive VP and head of North American distribution and network.

QBE North America has appointed Robert James as President of its property and casualty operation. His 30-year insurance career includes spells with Aon Benfield, Willis Capital Markets and Advisory and Bank of America’s Insurance Services Group.