Directline appoints RSA's Mike Williams as Managing Director

4th Mar 2014 12:19

Insurance company Direct Line has appointed Mike Holliday-Williams as its new Managing Director of the UK Personal Lines division.He will help lead the firm in its plans to bring together its retail products, marketing and distribution in the UK into a single organisation.Williams replaces Tom Woolgrove, who is leaving after four years of service. Woolgrove will assist in a smooth handover when Williams arrives in May.Williams joined RSA in 2006, where he was most recently Chief Executive of its Scandinavian operations Codan A/S and Trygg-Hansa.Rob Bailhache, Director of Communications will also be leaving the insurance firm after assisting in the group's separation from Royal Bank of Scotland. His role will not be replaced.Paul Geddes, Chief Executive Officer, said: "I am delighted Mike has decided to join us. The transformation of Direct Line Group is progressing well, and we aim to develop our pricing and distribution capabilities further to make the most of our market-leading franchise, rich customer data, and famous portfolio of brands. Mike brings a great blend of insurance expertise, a passion for customers, and broad retailing and marketing skills, which are essential for the next phase of our journey."As of 14:21 the share price had risen 1.38% to 264.9p.WS