RSA Group has announced the appointment of Kevin Thompson as chief executive officer of its Ireland operations. He replaces Ken Norgrove, who is moving to the role of CEO of RSA Group’s Scandinavian business Codan/Trygg-Hansa.

Thompson has spent seven years overseeing Insurance Ireland as CEO and had overall responsibility for the organisation and its strategic and commercial objectives. Prior to that, he held roles as CEO for AIG Life Ireland and VP for Multinational Group Risk Europe.

Thompson commented: “I am delighted to take up the post of CEO of RSA Ireland, which has a proud heritage in the Irish insurance market, having been writing insurance here since as far back as 1721. It is one of the most respected insurance companies in Ireland, and I take up the position of CEO with the business on a very solid footing, not least thanks to the excellent stewardship of Ken Norgrove. I look forward to taking up where Ken left off by maintaining the momentum he has built and carrying out my role with energy and enthusiasm.”

Norgrove commented: “I’m very proud of what the Irish team has achieved over the last five years The time is right for me to move onto the next chapter and challenge with a new role in the Scandinavian market. I do so in the knowledge that Kevin will be inheriting a strong customer focused business with a dedicated and talented team.”

Scott Egan, CEO RSA UK & International business commented: “Ken is one of the most experienced and talented leaders in RSA and his tenure in Ireland has produced brilliant results. He leaves behind a great legacy in Ireland and will transfer his skills, not least as a proven leader, to our Scandinavian business. We are very fortunate to have found a fantastic successor for Ken in Kevin Thompson. He is a leading authority on the industry in Ireland and will bring huge experience and proven ability to the role. I look forward to working closely with him and continuing to strengthen RSA’s position in the Irish market.”