Closed life and pension fund consolidator Phoenix Group Holdings plc, owner of the “old” Edinburgh-based Standard Life Assurance, announced changes to its executive committee on Tuesday.

Aviva’s Andy Curran is joining Phoenix as CEO Savings and Retirement, UK and Europe and Group Director Scotland.

Phoenix said executive committee member John McGuigan, group customer director, “will also play an increasing role in building relationships for the group in Scotland.”

Claire Hawkins is promoted to the role of Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations Director.

After more than 10 years with Phoenix Group, and over 30 years in the life and pensions sector, Susan McInnes is to retire from her role as CEO of Standard Life Assurance and Group Director for Phoenix’s Open business later this year.

Phoenix Group is a member of the FTSE 100 index, has 10 million policyholders and £248 billion of assets under management.

Standard Life Aberdeen plc and “affiliated investment management entities” still own 24.84% of Phoenix.

“Andy Curran brings more than 30 years of life and pensions experience – most recently as MD Corporate, Aviva UK Insurance, accountable for Aviva’s UK Corporate businesses,” said Phoenix.

“He was previously UK CEO for Friends Life as well as holding senior roles at Prudential.

“Andy will be based in Edinburgh and take on the role of CEO Savings and Retirement, UK and Europe, as well as the Group Director Scotland role ..

“Andy will join Phoenix in July and will work alongside Susan to deliver a smooth handover before Susan steps down in the autumn.

“He will lead the group’s open book and BPA growth strategy, and enhance Phoenix’s position as a leader in the workplace market, helping customers throughout their journey to and through retirement.

“As well as the open businesses in the UK, Andy will be responsible for our European operations and SunLife.”

Phoenix Group CEO Andy Briggs said: ““Susan has been instrumental in the transitionof Standard Life Assurance into Phoenix and setting the path for success in our open business.

“On behalf of the entire board, I would like to thank her for her service, and wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement.

“In Andy, a fellow Scot, we have an excellent successor.

“He brings significant experience of the life and pensions sector and an exceptional track record of delivering value for customers and shareholders.

“He will lead Phoenix’s open book and BPA growth strategy and enhance our position as a leader in the workplace market.”