Lewis replaces Munnoch as Zurich CEO in the UK

Stephen Lewis has been unveiled as the new UK chief executive of Zurich after the shock departure of Guy Munnoch.

Lewis will replace Munnoch from 5 October, subject to regulatory approval.

Munnoch is to become chief executive of Zurich’s Southern African team, which includes South Africa, Botswana, and Mauritius.

Lewis, who has spent 20 years at Zurich – most recently as head of group operations, planning and performance management – will report to Zurich’s Western Europe boss Markus Hongler.

Hongler said: “I am delighted to appoint someone of Stephen’s calibre to take over this role in one of the UK’s leading general insurance businesses.

“His broad industry knowledge will enable him to build on the success of our UK business and take it to the next level.”

In his new role, Munnoch will become a member of Zurich’s Europe general insurance executive committee and report directly to EGI chief executive Annette Court.

She said: “I’m obviously delighted that I can appoint a CEO with Guy’s significant experience and success to take over the lead in this important growth region for Zurich.

Zurich’s current Southern Africa chief executive Nick Beyers will retire in October.

In a recent interview with Insurance Times, Munnoch said the UK business, which accounts for 15% of the group’s overall income, was committed to growing its current lines of business, particularly the SME sector, where he aimed to become a top-three player.