Auto & General local CEO John Myler has resigned after 15 months in the role and a comprehensive search for his replacement will be conducted in coming months.

Brisbane-based Mr Myler made a decision to pursue other career opportunities, the South African insurer told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

Group MD & CEO Asia Pacific Ram Kangatharan is acting CEO of Insurance Australia while a replacement is appointed.

“John’s passion and innovative leadership has successfully led the insurance business through the uncertainty and changing landscape of the global pandemic,” Mr Kangatharan said. “He has made a significant contribution to our culture and we wish him all the best with his future endeavours.”

Mr Myler says he looks forward to seeing Auto & General’s ongoing success.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the Auto & General Insurance Australia business,” he said in a statement from the insurer.

Mr Myler took the CEO role at the start of 2020, taking over from Mr Kangatharan on his promotion to Group MD and CEO for Asia Pacific. He was formerly RACQ Insurance CEO, a position he held for about two years until his resignation in mid 2019. Before joining the Brisbane-based mutual insurer he was CEO of Allianz Global Assistance Australia and New Zealand.

The Auto & General website says it underwrites the insurance brands of Budget Direct, 1st for Women, Ozicare and Virgin Money. It also underwrites car and home insurance for Qantas.