Vero Insurance NZ has appointed senior AIG executive Cris Knell as EGM Commercial & Distribution starting in early September.

“Cris is a highly experienced and well regarded executive in New Zealand,” a Vero spokesman said. “Since 2010 he has been the CEO of AIG Insurance New Zealand.”

Mr Knell replaces Andrew Aitken who retires on June 30. He began his career at AIG in London in 1989 and held various senior international roles based in London, Paris and Singapore. He is also VP of the Insurance Council of New Zealand.

AIG Insurance NZ says it is seeking a new CEO following Mr Knell’s resignation.

CFO Debbie Wilson will hold the interim GM position and continue in her existing role, while the search is under way.

“We thank Cris for his service and wish him well in his future endeavours,” AIG Head of Country Operations – Australasia Noel Condon said.