Career development: Allianz Insurance's retail business granted chartered status

One of the first personal lines insurers in the UK to receive this accolade, Allianz has been recognised by the CII for its expertise, ethical conduct and commitment to employee development.

Allianz retail general manager Neil Brettell, pictured, commented, "It is an honour to be awarded chartered status and we are delighted that our retail business has been recognised for its excellent ethical, professional and technical standards. As we continue to take major steps towards driving profitable growth and increasing brand recognition, we remain committed to keeping the customer at the heart of everything we do. This achievement reflects our ongoing investment in the professional development of our people, in order to provide the highest levels of customer service possible."

CII chief executive Sandy Scott said: "We are delighted to welcome Allianz Retail to the growing number of chartered insurers. It becomes the first specialist retail division to achieve chartered status in its own right, and can be rightly proud of having embraced the challenge of professionalism."