QBE Australia’s business MD Elliot Hill is departing the insurer after seven years.

Australia Pacific CEO Sue Houghton told insuranceNEWS.com.au Mr Hill has decided to leave at the end of this month and will support a smooth transition in coming weeks.

GM of distribution Lorelle Hillman will serve as acting MD of business while a recruitment process is undertaken.

QBE is also searching for a new Australia Pacific CEO to replace Ms Houghton, who last month announced plans to retire at the end of the year.

“Elliot has played a significant role in leading the business division through a period of transformation and growth while maintaining a strong focus on our customers, partners and people,” Ms Houghton said today.

“Elliot is respected for his leadership, commitment and contributions to QBE, and we wish him every success in the future.”

Melbourne-based Mr Hill was formerly AIG CEO for New Zealand, and CEO at Britain’s RSA Insurance Group in Singapore.

He was QBE GM of partnerships and specialty until early 2022, when the insurer reorganised its Australian operating model around consumer and business customer segments.

Ms Houghton has spent more than five years at QBE, which she joined after heading Westpac’s insurance operation. She was previously CFO and COO at Gallagher in Australia and New Zealand, and has also held senior positions at IAG.