Aviva has hired Jill Stewart to manage Probitas Pacific, its Australian specialty underwriting business backed by Lloyd’s capacity.

Ms Stewart, most recently WTW Australasian head of financial and professional risks, will start on July 13 as head of Australia, subject to regulatory clearance.

Aviva says outgoing country manager Max Broodryk will stay until September 1 to facilitate a “smooth transition” for brokers and clients.

“There is no change to our strategy or direction in Australia,” Aviva director of global proposition Belinda Steedman said.

“Probitas Pacific will continue to operate as usual, with a clear focus on supporting brokers and clients and maintaining the strong momentum we are building in the market.”

Ms Steedman says Ms Stewart brings “deep expertise across both broking and underwriting and is well placed to build on our strong foundations in Australia and continue delivering for our brokers and clients.

“I’m delighted to appoint Jill as head of Australia … We would like to thank [Max] for his contribution and support during the transition period.

“Max has played a key role in establishing and leading Probitas Pacific in Australia and supporting its successful integration into Aviva.”

London-listed Aviva acquired Probitas for £242 million ($464 million) in 2024 and announced last month that Probitas 1492 will soon be rebranded as Aviva Syndicates.

“The rebrand will see the syndicate operate fully under the Aviva brand from the end of September, when brokers and clients will see the Aviva Syndicates name and branding across communications, systems and market interactions,” the insurer said.