Zurich's key strategist departs; successor named

Zurich Insurance has confirmed that its head of group strategy Claudio Gienal has left the company in December last year, and Giovanni Giuliani, the head of group innovation, business development and global lines has taken over his responsibilities.

Gienal has left Zurich abruptly to pursue other opportunities, however, the company has refused to divulge further details.

He assumed the role of Zurich’s chief strategist in April 2016, and is said to have spent nearly eight years in various key roles at the Swiss holding company.

"We confirm that Claudio Gienal has decided mid December 2016, to leave the company and pursue other career opportunities," a spokesman at Zurich confirmed.

"Giovanni Giuliani, who has joined Zurich last August, has taken in addition Claudio's role," he added.