Zurich has announced a new global unit to expand digital services and capitalise on changing customer behaviour, to be run by current Asia Pacific CEO Jack Howell.

The new regional chief will be Tulsi Naidu, who currently runs Zurich’s UK operation. Australia, which continues to be led by CEO General Insurance Australia and New Zealand Tim Plant, sits within Asia Pacific.

The insurer today announced that Mr Howell would lead the new Global Business Platforms unit, with Ericson Chan, currently CEO Ping An Technology, to take up the position of Group Chief Information and Digital Officer next month.

Zurich’s CEO North America Kathleen Savio will move to the new role of Group Chief Transformation Officer.

“This is a groundbreaking step in reaching our goal of becoming our customers’ preferred insurer,” Group CEO Mario Greco said.

“As lifestyles change globally, consumers seek personalised, convenient and transparent interactions.

“Zurich continues to launch innovative offerings to meet the demands of our customers and partners for a fully digital and streamlined experience."

Demand for digital has "broadened significantly" since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Mr Greco says.

“Jack has significant experience in insurance and is skilled at launching innovative products and services, and Ericson brings a passion for fintech and using emerging technology to deliver what people want," he said.

“This is the perfect combination to bring extra momentum to our customer-led strategy.”

A spokeswoman for Zurich Australia told insuranceNEWS.com.au that Global Business Platforms is being created "to scale Zurich’s existing digital services platforms such as WellCare and Cover-More and launch new digital services ventures globally".

"It will focus on launching and growing new businesses to gain additional customers and revenue, and will work closely with the local markets to achieve this goal," she said.