AXA appoints new UK and Ireland CEO

She succeeds former incumbent Claudio Gienal, who will move on to become Chief Transformation Officer for AXA European Markets and Health.

In her new role, Foley will be responsible for implementing AXA UK and Ireland’s 2024 to 2026 strategy, as well as leading the executive team and having oversight of the UK and Ireland business units.

Foley previously served as CEO of AXA UK Retail Insurance, a role she took on in November 2020. During her time in that role, she led a number of key projects, including the launch of digital-only car insurance subsidiary Moja, as well as the delivery of a ‘comprehensive’ programme of improvements to customer and employee experiences.

Prior to joining AXA, Foley worked at the Lloyds Banking Group for 12 years, most recently serving as Managing Director of the Bank of Scotland. She also held a number of other positions at Lloyds across both banking and insurance, with a particular focus on customer experience and innovation. Foley has also held roles at Deutsche Bank and Accenture.

“Tara is a dynamic and purpose-driven leader who has successfully transformed the AXA Retail business for customers and colleagues alike,” said Mark Pain, Chairman, AXA UK. “With her exceptional leadership skills and understanding of the insurance landscape combined with her diverse customer-centric experience, we are confident that AXA UK & Ireland will continue to thrive and grow under her guidance.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Claudio for his excellent leadership of AXA UK & Ireland. Over the past five years he has overseen the company’s largest transformation programme, built a competitive business and delivered significantly improved performance. We wish him all the best for his new role in AXA European Markets and Health,” he added.

Michelle Royle spoke to Duncan Clifford, AXA’s Head of Global Networks, as part of ITIJ’s July 2023 issue.