Simon Machell, formerly customer services director for Norwich Union Insurance (NUI), is the new managing director of RAC.
Simon Machell, formerly customer services director for Norwich Union Insurance (NUI), is the new managing director of RAC.
His appointment follows regulatory approval for the acquisition of RAC by Aviva and news that Aviva’s offer for RAC has gone unconditional. The RAC brand will be retained, with its own executive team headed up by Simon.
"I’m delighted to have the opportunity to lead RAC during an exciting new phase in the company’s development," said Simon, 41, who joined Norwich Union 11 years ago and became an executive director in 1998.
"There is huge potential for building on RAC’s success and reputation, and my first challenge is to look at how we do that and develop a strategy for maximising that potential for customers."
Simon takes over from current RAC chief executive Andy Harrison, who will stay on for a further six months in an advisory capacity.
"Simon’s background in customer service will help to reinforce all that has made RAC a great company," said Andy Harrison.
Simon will report to Aviva group executive director Patrick Snowball, who is also chief executive of Norwich Union Insurance. Reporting lines in RAC to Simon remain unchanged.
Simon Machell
Simon Machell is an economics graduate. He became a chartered accountant and joined Norwich Union in 1994, undertaking a number of senior finance positions before taking over the running of claims in 1998.
He is chairman of the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, and of the liaison group between the Insurance Ombudsman and the industry. He also chairs the board of Solus, Norwich Union’s joint venture motor body repairers.
His role as customer service director for Norwich Union Insurance carried responsibility for all aspects of claims management and the underwriting, servicing, and credit control for personal lines, small business insurance and corporate partners.
He is married and lives in Norfolk, and lists hobbies include walking, travelling, classic cars and running.
Press office contact:
Louise Zucchi 01603 684506/07800 699664
Notes to editors
- A photograph of Simon Machell is available from the Aviva media centre at /index.asp?PageID=60&ImageID=463
- Norwich Union is the UK's largest insurer with a market share of around 13 per cent
- With a focus on insurance for individuals and small businesses, Norwich Union insures:
- one in five households
- one in seven motor vehicles
- more than 800,000 businesses
- Norwich Union products are available through a variety of distribution channels including brokers, corporate partners such as banks and building societies and Norwich Union Direct.