Aviva appoints chief financial officer for US business

Aviva, the international savings, investments and insurance group, announces that Philip Easter, 53, is to become chief financial officer, Aviva USA, with effect from 1 January 2007. This follows the successful completion today of its acquisition of AmerUs, a leading US producer of life and annuity products.

Philip is currently finance director, Aviva UK general insurance, and has had a long career in finance with the company, having previously held senior finance roles including managing director, group finance and group financial controller. His knowledge and insight will ensure a smooth transition from US GAAP reporting to international accounting standards.

Philip will report to Tom Godlasky, chief executive officer, Aviva USA, and replaces Melinda Urion, who will leave the business on 15 December 2006. The appointment is subject to US regulatory approval.

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Enquiries:

Media
Hayley Stimpson
director of external affairs
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7662 7544

Vanessa Booth
group media relations manager
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7662 2482

Notes to editors:

• A photograph of Philip Easter is available from the Aviva media centre at /index.asp?pageid=60. This service also provides company and product information and a news release archive.
• Aviva announced the acquisition of AmerUs Group Co on 13 July 2006. AmerUs shareholders approved the acquisition on 19 October 2006. Following the transaction the USA has become the fourth-largest life business in the Aviva group. 
• Aviva is one of the leading providers of life and pensions to Europe with substantial positions in other markets around the world, making it the world’s fifth largest insurance group based on gross worldwide premiums at 31 December 2005. 
• Aviva’s principal business activities are long-term savings, fund management and general insurance, with worldwide total sales of Ł36 billion and assets under management of Ł322 billion at 31 December 2005.