THE man leading insurance giant Aviva's York-based business is leaving the company after more than 16 years.

David Barral, the current chief executive of Aviva's UK Life division, headquartered in Rougier Street, will leave the Aviva Group at the end of May.

The move comes after Aviva's £5.6 billion acquisition of Friends Life, which was approved by both parties' shareholders last week.

It is expected that, if the Guernsey Court sanctions the Scheme on April 10, the transaction will complete on April 13.

Aviva announced in December that Andy Briggs, the current chief executive of Friends Life, will become chief executive of the enlarged Aviva UK & Ireland Life business.

In a statement Aviva said it has been working with Mr Barral to "identify potential options to retain him within the Group", however he has decided that now is the right time to move on with the next stage of his career.

Mark Wilson, Aviva group chief executive, who is two years into a recovery plan for Aviva launched following a City revolt over performance, said: "I would like to thank David for his distinguished service to the Group.

"David has had a successful career with Aviva spanning 16 years.

"Over the last three years, David has been a member of the Group Executive and has been a great partner during Aviva’s turnaround. We all wish him well as he pursues the next chapter."

Aviva has said it may cut 1,500 jobs over the next two years, from a workforce of 31,500, after the merger. However, bosses at Aviva said it was too early to identify specific teams, roles or locations for the job cuts.

Alongside announcing Mr Barral's departure, Aviva said because of the significance of the UK Life business to the Group, John Lister will move from his role as Aviva's group chief risk officer to lead the finance function in the UK&I Life business.

Andy Briggs said: "The UK Life senior management team we have announced today has the experience and ambition to make the most of the considerable opportunities in the vibrant UK life and pensions sector."