The Swiss firm has a new figure driving distribution and marketing for one of its divisions in Asia-Pacific.

Switzerland-based Zurich Insurance Group has hired Kevin Leong as head of customer, distribution and marketing for its global corporate division in Asia-Pacific. He will be based in Singapore in his new role.

Leong will replace Reginald Peacock, who is now heading Zurich global corporate in Japan, a spokesperson for the firm told this publication when asked about the matter.

In his role, Leong will be responsible for further strengthening Zurich’s global corporate business through its Asia-Pacific business distribution network. He will manage all distribution channels, customer relationships and market development for the region. He will report directly to the chief executive of global corporate in Asia-Pacific, Keith Thomas.

Previously, Leong worked at Allianz as chief agent and CEO for global corporate and speciality in Canada. He was responsible for managing all daily operations and identifying growth initiatives with local, regional and global stakeholders. Prior to that, he was CEO for Allianz global corporate and speciality in Singapore.

“Kevin brings with him nearly two decades of global industry experience having held several senior positions in the Asia-Pacific, Middle Eastern, Canadian and European markets. We are confident that Kevin's in-depth industry know-how in driving growth in new and emerging markets, as well as his extensive network, will greatly support our ambition to aggressively grow our global corporate footprint in the Asia-Pacific market,” said Thomas.

In July 2014, Zurich Life Insurance, based in Singapore and part of the Zurich Insurance Group, launched a multi-currency protection plan designed to serve internationally mobile clients.