Kathleen Warden has taken the reins at AIG’s Australian operation after CEO Grant Cairns quit to help found a new underwriting business.

Former head of client and broker engagement Ms Warden has become GM Australia, subject to regulatory approval.

A note to staff seen by insuranceNEWS.com.au says she will report to regional president for Asia-Pacific, Chris Colahan and “lead our Australian business with a focus on driving growth and sustaining a high-performance culture”.

The note says Ms Warden, who joined AIG in 2023, “has been pivotal in embedding stronger sales disciplines, connecting the business across product lines and elevating the profile of AIG in the market”.

GM New Zealand Liam Pomfret will report direct to Mr Colahan and continue to serve on the Asia-Pacific leadership team. 

The changes come after Mr Cairns resigned last week “to pursue a different path in the industry” – later revealed to be a digitally led “underwriting venture” that is due to launch later this year and also involves outgoing Steadfast COO Nigel Fitzgerald.

Mr Cairns was appointed to the role at AIG in July 2023, joining from Chubb, where he was head of property and casualty for Asia-Pacific.