Allianz Names New CEOs for Allianz Partners and Direct

In Short

Allianz has confirmed two CEO changes across Allianz Partners and Allianz Direct. The moves take effect on November 1, 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

What Happened

Allianz said Philipp Kroetz, CEO of Allianz Direct since 2022, will become CEO of Allianz Partners on November 1, 2026. He will replace Tomas Kunzmann, who is set to join the Allianz SE Board of Management from January 1, 2027.

Allianz also named Laurent Floquet, currently chief operating officer at Allianz Partners, as the next CEO of Allianz Direct. He will take over from Kroetz on the same date.

The group said the handovers are sequenced to keep leadership continuity. A successor for Floquet’s COO role at Allianz Partners will be announced later.

Kroetz led Allianz Direct’s growth as a digital insurer, meaning customers can buy and manage policies online with limited branch involvement. Allianz said the business expanded to more than 3.2 million customers across five European markets and reached more than €1.5 billion in total business volume in 2025.

Why It Matters

Allianz framed the appointments as part of its push into customer-focused digital and cross-border insurance. Cross-border insurance is coverage designed to work consistently across countries, for example for travel, mobility, or multinational employers.

The company highlighted product lines that sit across both units, including motor, home, travel, assistance, and health. This matters for African operators and startups working with insurers because many partnerships depend on fast claims handling and standardised APIs, which are software connections that let platforms share data securely.

Allianz also pointed to its “Connected Platforms” strategy, which it describes as combining AI-enabled technology with service networks. AI in this context often means automating parts of pricing, customer support, and claims decisions.

For the wider insurtech market, the message is clear. Large insurers are still investing in digital distribution and operational speed, and they are placing senior leaders with direct-to-consumer and platform experience in key roles.