AIG announces global insurance head

Company sets sights on international expansion with newly-created role

AIG announces global insurance head

Insurance News

By Lyle Adriano

American International Group (AIG) has welcomed back Chris Townsend, who has been tapped to fill in the newly created role of International General Insurance CEO.

In this new role, Townsend will lead the international operations of AIG’s general insurance business. He will be responsible for “executing its growth strategy and building on the company’s extensive international footprint to support a profitable, client focused organization,” a release said.

He will report to AIG General Insurance CEO Peter Zaffino as a member of the General Insurance Executive Team. Townsend is expected to join the company in Q1 2018.

Search and compare product listings for D&O Insurance from specialty market providers here

Townsend has more than 25 years of experience in the insurance industry. He was previously working with MetLife as the president of the company’s Asia operations, as well as a member of the company’s executive group. Prior to joining MetLife, Townsend was with AIG, where he held a number of senior roles. From 2010 to 2012, he was CEO of AIG’s Asia Pacific region, overseeing the company’s operations across 15 countries.

He serves on the Board of the Japan Society and holds a number of advisory positions, including advisor to the Asia Society, vice chairman of the US-Korea Business Council, and a member of the international advisory council to the Guangdong Government. Townsend is a Chartered Insurer.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Chris back to AIG,” Zaffino said. “He is a highly experienced leader in the insurance industry who knows our company well. He brings deep international expertise to our team, as well as a proven track record of delivering strong financial and operating results. I look forward to partnering with Chris as we strategically position general insurance for the future.”

“I started my career at AIG, and it feels great to be returning and to be part of the next era in the company’s long history. I look forward to working with Peter and his talented team to build on AIG’s strong global footprint and contribute to a growing, successful future,” commented Townsend.

Related Stories

Keep up with the latest news and events

Join our mailing list, it’s free!