Incoming IAG CEO makes first appointment

Peter Harmer doesn't become IAG CEO until the middle of next month but he's already begun shaping the insurance giant's management team.

Incoming IAG chief executive Peter Harmer has begun shaping the insurance giant's management team. (AAP)

Incoming IAG chief executive Peter Harmer has begun shaping the insurance giant's management with the hiring of Mark Milliner from rival Suncorp.

Mr Harmer replaces the retiring Mike Wilkins on November 16 and will be joined by Suncorp personal finance chief executive Mr Milliner, who will become IAG's chief operating officer mid-2016.

"(Mr Milliner's) experience in leading and growing insurance businesses and his passion for customer service will be a tremendous asset as we continue to build up our business for future success," Mr Harmer said.

Mr Milliner had been a candidate to become chief executive of Suncorp this year but lost out to GOT Group boss Michael Cameron.