New VHI chief executive appointed

John O’Dwyer has been appointed as the new chief executive of the VHI.

Mr O’Dwyer will take over from the acting chief executive Declan Moran on 1st August. He is currently working as chief operating officer and executive director of Interamerican, the second biggest insurer in Greece which belongs to international Dutch insurance group Achmea.

Prior to joining Achmea, Mr O’Dwyer held positions as managing director of Friends First Life Assurance, director of operations at BUPA Ireland, and assistant chief executive of the VHI with responsibility for claims.

He also served as non-executive chairman of the board of the National Treatment Purchase Fund.

Commenting on his appointment, chairman of the VHI Bernard Collins said Mr O’Dwyer’s extensive sector and managerial experience would be invaluable in leading VHI at a “critical time in its development”.

“A key priority will be to lead VHI Healthcare to achieve authorisation by the Central Bank by 31st December 2013,” he said.