Chubb has named Janene Blizzard as the new head of its Accident and Health (A&H) operations across the Asia Pacific, effective June 1. This appointment comes as healthcare costs in the region continue to rise, impacting the insurance landscape.
Blizzard will be based in Singapore and will report to Marcos Gunn, the regional president of Asia Pacific. She will also have a matrix reporting line to Daniela Hernandez, the division president for international A&H at overseas general insurance.
In her new role, Blizzard will oversee the strategy, performance, and business development of Chubb’s A&H segment in the region.
“Janene is an exceptional leader with deep experience in A&H,” Gunn said. “Her proven ability to build high-performing teams and drive profitability will be key to achieving our goals for A&H in the Asia Pacific region.”
Addressing Rising Healthcare Costs
Blizzard’s appointment comes as insurers across Asia Pacific are adapting to the sharp increase in medical costs. Her role will involve reshaping Chubb’s A&H offerings to meet rising costs, shifting usage patterns, and changing client expectations.
Daniela Hernandez praised Blizzard’s focus on customer outcomes, noting that her collaborative approach with partners will help Chubb deliver innovative solutions to meet evolving client needs.
“We are excited to have Janene join our team in Asia Pacific,” Hernandez said. “Her experience and customer-focused approach will enhance our ability to respond to the changing priorities of our clients and partners.”
A Leader with Extensive Experience
Blizzard has been with Chubb since 2008, holding various leadership roles in underwriting and operations. Prior to her current appointment, she served as senior vice president and chief operating officer for international accident and health.
Rising Medical Inflation Across the Region
Blizzard’s appointment aligns with findings from Aon’s 2025 Global Medical Trend Rates Report, which shows New Zealand facing one of the highest medical inflation rates in Asia Pacific. The report predicts that medical inflation in New Zealand will rise from 7.4% in 2024 to 14.5% in 2025. Other countries, including Thailand, Papua New Guinea, and Vietnam, are also experiencing significant increases.
Aon’s report projects a global average medical inflation rate of 10% in 2025, with Asia Pacific facing the highest increase at 11.1%. These trends are driving insurers to rethink pricing, benefits, and healthcare access strategies.
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