New National Aviation Manager for QBE Australia

QBE Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Julian Fraser as National Manager, Aviation, effective 3 August 2015.

Julian brings more than 30 years experience in the Aviation insurance market, across underwriting, claims and sales, and has been a key member of QBE’s Aviation team since 2001.

Most recently he has been responsible for underwriting and sales operations, including marketing and sponsorship, as Aviation’s National Relationship Manager. During this time Julian has been heavily involved in developing aviation safety and risk management, promoting the sustainability and professionalism of the industry.

He has been instrumental in building the profile of QBE's aviation team through initiatives such as QBE's Airmanship Program, which has Australia's only Red Bull Air Race World Championship pilot, Matt Hall, as its ambassador.

Julian also led the establishment of QBE's partnership with Unmanned Aircraft Systems International, which recently launched the world's first Risk-based Safety and Auditing Standard for drones and other unmanned aircraft operations to reduce the threat of drone-related accidents.

Julian replaces John Buckley who announced he would retire from his position, after 12 years in the role, from 31 July 2015. John will continue with the Aviation team in a part-time capacity as an Aviation Technical Consultant until the end of 2016.

In his new role Julian will drive initiatives around operational efficiency and innovation for continued profitable growth in Australia, along with a risk management driven growth strategy in QBE's regional portfolio.

QBE Australia's General Manager, Underwriting Agencies, Chris Harnett said: "We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Julian's experience and passion leading our Aviation team.

"Julian has invaluable knowledge of our business and partnerships and he has worked closely with John on developing strategy over the last few years. We believe his diverse skill set will help ensure we can continue to strengthen our existing partnerships and develop new growth opportunities in the aviation market."

On his appointment Julian said: "In an era of increasing challenges I'm very excited and extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead our proud, market-leading team.

"My vision is to continue our strong focus on customers, build on our reputation and assist the aviation industry in promoting safety and sustainability, to help ensure continued strong performance for QBE."

Julian is an extremely active member of the Australian aviation industry as a Director of Flight Safety Foundation Limited and Aviation/Aerospace Australia, and the Convenor of the Australian Aviation Insurance Forum. He’s also an experienced pilot, having held his private licence since 1990.

Julian will continue to be based in QBE's Melbourne office.

For further information please contact:

Megan McDougall
Senior Communications Specialist
QBE Change and Communications
Phone: 02 9375 4664
Email: megan.mcdougall@qbe.com