Friends Life vice chairman Trevor Matthews is to become chief executive of Aviva UK, replacing Mark Hodges who has resigned to head Towergate Insurance.

Hodges today announced his resignation from the board to join Towergate as group chief executive. Matthews, who was replaced as chief executive of Friends Life by Andy Briggs, will be chief executive of Aviva's UK region.

It had been understood that Matthews would return to his native Australia 'within the next three years', stepping down from his Friends Life role as owners Resolution (RSL.L) prepared the company for a return to public ownership.

His replacement Andy Briggs - former chief executive of general insurance at Lloyds Banking Group and chief executive of Scottish Widows - was announced earlier this year.

In a market statement, Resolution announced Matthews had resigned his vice chairman role.

Matthews - a well-known figure in the insurance industry - was previously chief executive of Standard Life's UK life and pensions business and managing director of Legal & General in Australia.

Andrew Moss, group chief executive of Aviva (AV.L), said he was 'sad' to see Hodges leave but wished him well.

He added, 'Trevor has an outstanding track record of achievement in insurance globally and will be a strong addition to our leadership team.'

According to Aviva, Matthews will join the company 'as soon as possible'.

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