AXA hunts for marketing chief after two-year gap

AXA Insurance is looking for a marketing chief, almost two years after the departure of its last marketing director.

The role has been overseen by chief executive Peter Hubbard since the departure of Simon Rhodes in February 2000. The position was eliminated as part of a restructure following Rhodes’ departure.

The company says it has decided to resurrect the role “to strengthen its emphasis on customer service”. The move is part of a restructure instigated by Dennis Holt, group chief executive of AXA UK, which comprises AXA Insurance, AXA Sun Life and PPP Healthcare.

This restructure led to AXA UK appointing John Bines as group marketing director last month. However, the marketing director of AXA Insurance will report to Hubbard rather than Bines.

A spokesman for AXA says Bines has been brought in to develop the AXA brand and sponsorship, while the marketing directors will cover product advertising and development.

The marketing directors of AXA Sun Life and PPP Healthcare, Frank Wilson and Darrin Nightingale, will also continue to report to their respective chief executives.

Last week, AXA Insurance appointed Hubbard Hiwaizi McCann to its £12m direct marketing account, previously held by Rapier.

Advertising for AXA Insurance is through TBWA/London.