Allianz is searching for a new CEO of its Allianz Marine & Transit (AM&T) underwriting business to succeed Stephen Ford, who will depart the role at the end of June after almost a decade.

Marine insurance veteran Mr Ford, who helped establish Allianz’s offering in 2012, formerly headed Associated Marine and was also previously Regional VP - Marine, Asia Pacific at Ace (now Chubb).

“Establishing and then leading AM&T as a specialist marine insurance business for Allianz has been a wonderful working experience,” Mr Ford said in a note to brokers seen by insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“We have developed a great team and have some really exciting opportunities ahead but it’s time to refresh. New energy and fresh ideas will keep the business driving forward through the next phases of its evolution.”

Under Mr Ford’s leadership, Allianz has established itself as a leading participant in the Australian marine insurance market.

GM Underwriting Agencies at Allianz Australia Jenny Bax says AM&T is an important part of the insurer’s agency strategy and proposition to the broker market.

“Stephen will leave with our thanks for a job well done having built and led a highly successful specialist marine agency business,” Ms Bax said.