IAG focuses on the future with executive appointment and new division

The new division will be IAG’s digital hub for innovation, bringing together a number of existing functions as well as creating some new incubator areas which will specifically explore new opportunities across the broader business. 

This follows Mr Harmer’s appointment in March to the role of Chief Digital Officer with a remit to develop a group-wide digital strategy. Mr Harmer was previously Chief Executive of IAG’s Commercial Insurance business in Australia.  

Mr Wilkins said the appointment was critical to enable IAG to continue to deliver to its customers in an innovative and effective way.

“Our rapidly changing operating environment means we must continue to explore new ways of doing business with our customers. The shift to digital in particular is happening at an incredible pace, and we see a significant opportunity to evolve quickly in this area.  

“Since taking on the role of Chief Digital Officer in March, Peter has been looking at how we can take advantage of the shift to digital and be more inventive, which is why we’ve created IAG Labs,” Mr Wilkins said. 

IAG Labs brings together existing technology and project management teams across IAG.  It also includes a new customer insights capability, a centralised digital product and service development team and a venturing unit focused on new business opportunities and disruptive technology.

Mr Harmer said he looked forward to moving IAG further into the digital world with the creation of the new division. 

“This is an exciting opportunity for IAG to be more strategic, agile and innovative in how we deliver to our customers as we build this new division,” Mr Harmer said.   

As part of these changes, Chief Executive Enterprise Operations, Alex Harrison, has decided to leave IAG. Mr Harrison joined IAG in 2010 as Chief Operating Officer for its then Australia Direct division.  

Mr Wilkins acknowledged the significant contribution Mr Harrison has made in his time at IAG and wished him well in his future endeavours.  

IAG’s Chief Strategy Officer, Leona Murphy, will take on additional responsibility for the Enterprise Operations division which is responsible for support services across IAG’s Australian business including people and culture, procurement and supply chain.

Ms Murphy joined the IAG executive team in 2007.  She has significant operational, strategic and human resources experience gained during her 20 years experience in the general insurance industry.