Axa UK and Ireland has created a new general insurance business – Axa Insurance UK – which combines its UK commercial and retail units into a single entity under a single leadership structure. Jon Walker becomes CEO of Axa Insurance UK. Previously, he was CEO of Axa Commercial and had been acting as CEO of Axa Retail since the end of last year.

Tara Foley, CEO of Axa UK and Ireland, said: “Bringing our UK commercial and retail businesses together as Axa Insurance is a significant step forward for Axa UK and Ireland. Under Jon Walker’s leadership, retail and commercial will continue to serve their customers with the same focus and this unified general insurance business will be simpler, stronger and more agile as well as better positioned to compete, grow and deliver for our customers and partners.

“By combining our expertise across personal and commercial lines, we will enhance our technical capabilities, accelerate the use of technology and AI and scale best practice across the business. This move strengthens our competitive position and creates a more dynamic and attractive environment to work.”

In May, Julie Barbey will join Axa Insurance UK as managing director – retail. Previously, she led Axa France’s largest regional retail team. Mike Crane, who previously led the Axa Commercial SME and specialty teams has been appointed managing director – commercial of Axa Insurance UK.