Crash repairer AMA Group has appointed former Suncorp executive Andrew Mair to the newly created role of Chief Commercial Officer as it further consolidates its strategic relationships with key insurance customers.

AMA Group, chaired by former Suncorp CEO Commercial Insurance Anthony Day, acquired 90% of the insurer’s interest in the Capital SMART repair business in 2019 as well as the ACM Parts business.

Suncorp retained a 10% interest in the repairer and also a seat on the subsidiary’s board in an arrangement that ensured it would work closely with AMA as an ongoing partner.

Mr Mair was Suncorp EGM Intermediaries from 2008 to last year, when he left the group after a merger of the commercial and intermediary divisions. Previously he was with Zurich.

“This appointment will enhance the value our customers obtain from a consolidated strategic relationship with the group and deliver growth and development from the strength of these relationships, for our business,” AMA said.

AMA Group says its volumes have been improved by a return to more traditional pre-COVID driving patterns, the popularity of domestic driving holidays, the reluctance of many people to use public transport and sustained periods of wet weather during March and April.

“It’s pleasing to see vehicle volume returning to normal,” AMA Group CEO Carl Bizon said. “With just over three months at the helm, my focus has been on delivery of operational and financial performance and ensuring the group has the right people to deliver the continued growth and development of the business.”

Mr Mair starts in the new role next Tuesday.