Zurich appoints Chief Sustainability Officer and Chief Operating Officer in the UK

Sustainability is at the core of the business strategy and is reinforced by our global ambition to become one of the world’s most responsible and impactful companies.

Prior to his five-year tenure as COO at Zurich, John spent over two decades of his career in management consultancy working with brands such as Capgemini and Accenture. He has an in-depth knowledge of Zurich’s supplier network and facilities, as well as a broad understanding of the end-to-end UK business. This collective experience makes him well positioned to take this role. In addition to his Sustainability responsibilities, John will continue to hold responsibilities for UK Engineering and the Customer Office.

Anita Fernqvist, currently Chief Data Officer, will succeed John as UK Chief Operating Officer (COO) joining the UK Executive team. Anita will be responsible for leading our digital, data, operations and IT strategy and our continual response to technological advancement. She has a wealth of experience, having joined Zurich from IBM 17 years ago. Anita has worked in a range of operations and technology roles in this time including Head of Business Change and IT, Head of COO Office, Head of Central Operations and most recently Chief Data Officer.

John Keppel, Chief Operating Officer comments:

“I’m really excited to lead our journey to becoming one of the most responsible and impactful companies in the world. We’ve made strong progress over the last few years but there is so much more to be done. Creating this new role demonstrates our commitment to sustainability, and I am so proud to be the one to take the lead and demonstrate this commitment in practice.”

Anita Fernqvist, Chief Data Officer comments:

“Having lived and breathed Operations for a number of years, I am absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to lead such a brilliant team. I have always been passionate about data and technology, and this role will allow me to enjoy the best of both worlds. I very much look forward to the next stage of the journey in which we seek to build on the great momentum already in place.”

Tim Bailey, UK CEO comments:

“I’m very pleased to see our internal talent and succession plans come to life through this move. Both John and Anita are hugely valued, and talented members of the team and I’m delighted to see Anita join our UK Executive Committee.

“We are hugely committed to sustainability and the appointment of John is testament to us driving this forward with our senior leadership team at the helm.”

John’s and Anita’s new roles will take effect 1 July, subject to regulatory approval.