Declan O’Rourke, the CEO of Aviva Ireland’s general insurance business, has been involved in the industry for over three decades. He has experience working in various insurance companies, including AIG, where he spent 27 years before becoming the CEO of Aviva Ireland. In his current role, he is responsible for leading the company’s general insurance business, which includes a range of products such as car, home, and commercial insurance.
O’Rourke has been instrumental in the launch of Level Health, a new health insurance company that is a joint venture between Aviva and the founders of Vivas Health, which was acquired by Aviva in 2008. The new company offers a range of health insurance products, including four different plans, and is designed to be a simple and straightforward alternative to the more complex and expensive insurance options available in the Irish market.
In an interview, O’Rourke discussed the challenges facing the insurance industry in Ireland, including the high level of claims in the personal injury claims sector. He also spoke about the need for the industry to be more competitive and efficient, with fewer providers, and for the government to take a more active role in addressing the issue of fraudulent claims.
O’Rourke also highlighted the importance of insurance in times of crisis, such as after natural disasters like storms, and the need for insurance companies to be involved in the response efforts. He also spoke about the company’s environmental initiatives, including their sponsorship of the Lansdowne Road stadium, which has helped to raise awareness for important environmental issues.
In his personal life, O’Rourke is a family man who enjoys spending time with his five children, who are all involved in sports. He is also a keen mentor and coach, and coaches a youth hurling team in his spare time. His favorite film is “The Godfather” and he is currently reading a book called “The Rodfather” by Roddy Collins.