QBE has announced the exit of Group COO David McMillan, who is leaving to become CEO of a UK insurer.

Mr McMillan, who was based in London but travelled regularly to Australia, joined QBE in September 2017. He replaced Colin Fagen, who is now MD and co-founder of underwriting agency Blue Zebra.

In a note to the Australian Securities Exchange today, QBE says Mr McMillan will not be replaced, with his responsibilities “reallocated” between other executives.

Group CIO Matt Mansour, who arrived at QBE last year from Barclays, will join the Group Executive Committee.

Group Chief Human Resources Officer Margaret Murphy will take on a wider role as Group Executive People and Change, with responsibility for people, culture and transformation.

“During his time with QBE, David has played an important role in establishing the strategy of a stronger, simpler, more future-focused QBE,” Group CEO Pat Regan said.

“He has built leadership strength across our operations and mapped out our transformation, cost efficiency, IT, digital and innovation agendas.”