Allianz Commercial is set to expand its regional branch network with the opening of a new office in Newcastle.

The Company is currently searching for premises in the city centre and aims to have a team in place within the next six months.

In preparation, the Company has appointed Les Archibald to manage the operation. Les, who has over 20 years’ commercial insurance experience, joins Allianz from Primary General & Rural Insurance where he has been underwriting director for the past two-and-a-half years.

Les will oversee broker development in the North-East, leading the underwriting and new business teams to maximise opportunities in the region.

Chris Hanks, general manger of Allianz Commercial, said: "This is an exciting development which proves our long-term commitment to local broker markets. To be successful in the UK commercial sector, we firmly believe you need a strong regional network that keeps underwriters and decision-makers close to the customer."

He adds: "We are delighted to have secured Les’s services and are confident that his knowledge of the local market will help us attain the profitable growth that we are looking for in this region."

Commenting on his appointment, Les said: "I’m delighted to be joining Allianz Commercial at such an exciting time in the Company’s development. I relish the challenge of leading this new venture and developing a profitable managed broker account in the North-East."

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