Leanne Nel will become QBE Pacific CEO and MD, taking over from Jonathan Groves after he was promoted to a wider regional role.

Ms Nel, currently Pacific GM for underwriting and partners, has more than 30 years’ insurance experience spanning underwriting, distribution, claims, operations and transformation.

Leanne Nel

Since joining QBE in 2001 she has held roles across Australia and the Pacific region, including head of underwriting operations for Australia and New Zealand, and GM of underwriting governance, performance and disclosure. She spent almost four years leading the claims team in New Zealand and the Pacific area.

Mr Groves – who this month became Australia Pacific CEO – says Ms Nel’s breadth of experience and deep knowledge of QBE and the Pacific business provide a strong foundation for the role.

“She is a highly respected leader and I know she will bring her energy and strong sense of purpose to leading the Pacific business,” he said today.

Auckland-based Ms Nel says the Pacific business has talented people, a strong foundation and a clear sense of where it is heading. “I’m excited to work alongside our people, customers and partners to build on what we’ve achieved and shape the next chapter together,” she said.

Ms Nel’s appointment takes effect on December 3.