Insurance major AXA Commercial has revealed plans to open two new SME trading centres, which may put approximately 106 jobs at risk.

The two SME trading centres in Bolton and Ipswich will deal with renewal business and mid-terms adjustments for SME policies.

Currently, the SMEs policies are serviced through 12 regional branches.

The move is expected to affect staff at Leeds, London, Bolton NTC, Birmingham, Bristol, Ipswich Maidstone, Manchester, Newcastle, Reading, Real Estate Specialty, and AXA Scotland.

The insurer, however, noted that the actual layoff will be less than half as these two trading centres will absorb most of the existing staff to work in SME trading centre roles.

AXA Commercial executive managing director Jon Walker said: “The new SME Trading Centres are the latest step towards becoming a simpler, more efficient business, in line with our simplification, growth and enhanced broker service agenda.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“Bringing SME resource together into two Centres of Excellence will promote underwriting efficiency and service, whilst enabling our branches to do what they do best – providing local access to complex underwriting expertise and strong account management.”

“This in turn will enable us to work more closely with brokers to fulfil our shared growth ambitions, with trading relationships continuing to be managed by our branch teams.”

In February, AXA XL, a division of French insurance giant AXA, announced plans to cut nearly 711 jobs from its European businesses as part of its restricting effort.