Healthcare insurer AXA Health has appointed Heather Smith as its new chief executive, taking up the role in mid-January 2024, Insurance Age has reported.

Smith will succeed Matt Vardy who has held the role on an interim basis since Tracy Garrad left in March.

Smith is currently Allianz’s manging director for retail, a role she has held for almost three years. She has responsibility for personal lines insurance for more than three million customers.

Tara Foley, chief executive of Axa UK & Ireland, said: “Heather is a strong and authentic leader who has a wealth of experience [in] developing high-preforming teams and delivering the best outcomes for customers in both health and insurance businesses.

“I’m confident that she is an excellent fit for Axa and the right person to lead health through the important next stage of strategy delivery.”

Smith said: “I’m really excited to have been given the opportunity to take up the role of CEO of Axa Health and continue the excellent work being delivered by such a forward-thinking business.

“I hope to be able to build on these successes and work with the team to continue to grow the business together.”