Allianz Commercial snaps up Aviva veteran to bolster southern structure

Allianz Commercial has snapped up Aviva veteran Caroline Donati to lead its Southampton branch, a statement released today (14 August 2023) revealed.

As the new branch manager, Donati, who will succeed David Trott, will be responsible for the unit’s growth strategy and development.

She will also join Allianz’s regional senior leadership team as part of the move.

Donati, who brings 20 years of broker market experience, will take up the role when she leaves Aviva in October 2023.

She currently serves as the insurer’s senior broker development manager and leads a team of business development managers across London and surrounding areas.

During her 10 years with Aviva, she also held positions such as senior sales and distribution manager.

“I look forward to welcoming Caroline to the team,” Dave Carey, managing director for mid-market at Allianz Commercial, said.

”She brings with her extensive market experience and established relationships with our broker partners. I know she is going to be a fantastic addition to our southern team.

”My thanks to David Trott for his many years of service in Southampton. He has built a successful and vibrant business and I wish him a happy retirement.

“Caroline is the perfect addition to take over the reins, to build and capitalise on Southampton’s success.”

Second appointment

Meanwhile, Allianz Commercial also revealed that Simon Hanley will take up the role of regional manager for the south.

He will be responsible for the implementation of underwriting strategy and growth of the region as well as leading the teams and managing the operational and service delivery for brokers and customers.

Hanley joined Allianz in 2005 as a business developer and has held a number of roles across the commercial business, including key account manager and distribution manager.

His most recent role saw him oversee the development and growth of the insurer in Chelmsford as branch manager.

”Our regional managers are critical in driving forward our growth ambitions and Simon has played a key part already,” Carey said.

”I’m really looking forward to working with him further as our strategy develops.

“I’m passionate about developing my mid-market team, using Allianz’s existing strengths as a springboard to push ourselves to deliver even better outcomes for our brokers and customers.”