
Introduction to Aviva
Aviva plc is one of the largest and most respected insurance and financial services companies in the world, headquartered in London, United Kingdom. With a rich heritage dating back to 1696, Aviva has grown into a global powerhouse serving over 33 million customers across 14 countries. The company is renowned for its comprehensive portfolio of insurance, savings, investments, and retirement products, making it a cornerstone of the financial services industry. Aviva's market capitalisation exceeds £15 billion, and it consistently ranks among the top insurers globally. The firm's reputation for financial stability, customer-centric innovation, and ethical business practices has cemented its position as a trusted partner for individuals, families, and corporations alike.
Aviva operates through three main business segments: UK & Ireland Life Insurance, UK & Ireland General Insurance, and International (including Canada, France, Poland, and Asia). This diversified model allows Aviva to spread risk and capture growth opportunities across multiple markets. The company employs over 30,000 people worldwide, many of whom are highly skilled in actuarial science, data analytics, risk management, and digital transformation. Aviva's commitment to sustainability and responsible investing is evident through its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2040 and its extensive community engagement programmes. For finance professionals, Aviva offers a challenging and rewarding environment where they can apply their expertise to solve complex problems in a highly regulated industry. This job listing focuses on the role of Aviva Senior Financial Analyst, a key position within the Group Finance function that supports strategic decision-making across the enterprise.
Why is Aviva considered a top employer in finance? The company’s robust training programmes, clear career progression paths, and emphasis on diversity and inclusion create a workplace where talent thrives. Aviva has received numerous awards for its workplace culture, including being named a Top 50 Employer for Women by The Times. Additionally, its strong financial health ensures job security and attractive compensation packages. This job listing will provide an exhaustive overview of Aviva as an employer, detailing its history, culture, products, and the specific requirements for the Senior Financial Analyst role, while also offering deep insights into the company's reputation through customer and employee reviews.
Company History and Business Evolution
Aviva's origins trace back to 1696 when the Hand in Hand Fire & Life Insurance Society was founded in London, making it one of the oldest insurance companies in the world. Over the centuries, through a series of mergers and acquisitions, the company evolved into a modern insurance giant. The name 'Aviva' was adopted in 2002 following the merger of CGU plc and Norwich Union plc, unifying the group under a single brand. Before that, the group was known as Norwich Union, which itself had roots in the 19th century. The formation of Aviva marked a strategic repositioning to compete more effectively on a global scale, leveraging the combined strengths of its predecessor entities.
Key milestones in Aviva's evolution include the expansion into continental Europe in the 1990s, the acquisition of RAC in 2005 (later divested), and the purchase of Friends Life in 2015 for £5.6 billion, which significantly strengthened Aviva's presence in the UK life and pensions market. More recently, Aviva has focused on simplifying its portfolio, divesting non-core businesses in Asia and Europe to concentrate on its core markets in the UK, Ireland, and Canada. In 2021, the company sold its entire stake in Aviva France to Aéma Groupe, and in 2022 it sold its Polish operations to Allianz. These moves have sharpened Aviva's strategic focus and improved capital efficiency.
Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Aviva's development. The company was among the first to offer motor insurance in the early 20th century and pioneered telematics-based insurance ('black box') for young drivers. In digital transformation, Aviva has invested heavily in AI and data analytics to improve underwriting, claims processing, and customer experience. The launch of the Aviva Digital Garage in London and Singapore fosters fintech partnerships and internal innovation. Today, Aviva continues to adapt to changing market dynamics, including the rise of insurtech, climate risk, and evolving regulatory frameworks. The history of Aviva is a testament to its resilience and ability to reinvent itself over more than three centuries, making it a stable yet forward-thinking employer in the financial services sector.
Aviva at a Glance
- Headquarters: London, United Kingdom (registered office at 80 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 4AE)
- Founded: 1696 (as Hand in Hand Fire & Life Insurance Society); rebranded as Aviva in 2002
- CEO: Amanda Blanc (appointed 2020)
- Revenue: £31.6 billion (2023 full-year results)
- Operating Profit: £1.5 billion (2023)
- Assets Under Management: Over £350 billion
- Employees: Approximately 30,000 (2024)
- Customers: More than 33 million worldwide
- Stock Exchange: London Stock Exchange (Ticker: AV.), also listed on NYSE via ADR
- Industry: Insurance and Financial Services
- Key Markets: United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada (also historically operations in France, Poland, Asia)
- Main Business Segments: UK Life, UK General Insurance, Ireland Life, Canada, and International
- Subsidiaries: Aviva Life & Pensions UK Limited, Aviva Insurance Limited, Aviva Canada, Aviva Ireland
- Awards: Best Insurance Company (City of London Wealth Management Awards 2023); Top 50 Employer for Women; Sunday Times Best Big Companies to Work For
- Sustainability: Net-zero carbon target by 2040; UN Principles for Responsible Investment signatory
- Digital Presence: Aviva App, MyAviva portal, AI-driven claims handling
- Brand Value: Estimated at $8.4 billion (Brand Finance 2024)
- Corporate Structure: Public limited company (plc)
- Auditor: PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
- Website:www.aviva.com
Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values
Aviva’s mission is to be the leading insurance company for the modern world, delivering value to customers, shareholders, and society. The company’s vision is 'to be the most trusted and efficient insurer, with outstanding customer service enabled by digital excellence.' This vision drives every aspect of the business, from product design to claims handling. Aviva’s corporate values are encapsulated in the acronym SPIRIT: Striving to be better, Putting customers first, Inclusive and diverse, Responsible and ethical, Innovative and agile, and Teamwork. These values are deeply embedded in the company’s culture and are reflected in its employee performance frameworks and decision-making processes.
Aviva places a strong emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility. Its mission includes playing a vital role in helping people protect their futures and the planet. The company has committed to invest £10 billion in climate transition assets by 2030 and aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across its operations and investments by 2040. Aviva also champions social equity through initiatives like the Aviva Foundation, which supports financial literacy and community resilience programmes. For employees, these values translate into a workplace where purpose and profit go hand in hand. The values are not just words on a wall; they are regularly referenced in town halls, annual reports, and internal communications, ensuring alignment across the global workforce.
Business Strategy and Future Roadmap
Aviva's current business strategy revolves around three pillars: Growth, Efficiency, and Capital Strength. Under the leadership of CEO Amanda Blanc, the company has embarked on a transformation journey to become a 'leaner, simpler, and more profitable' insurer. The strategy focuses on core markets—UK, Ireland, and Canada—where Aviva has strong competitive positions. Key elements include enhancing digital capabilities to improve customer experience, optimising the product mix towards higher-margin lines (such as protection and wealth management), and rigorous expense management. Aviva has set ambitious financial targets: achieving a return on equity (ROE) of over 12% by 2026 and generating £5 billion in cumulative cash remittances from 2022 to 2024.
The future roadmap includes significant investments in technology. Aviva is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for personalised pricing, fraud detection, and automated claims processing. The company is also expanding its partnerships with fintech startups through the Aviva Venture Capital arm. In the UK, Aviva is focusing on the growing retirement income market, given an ageing population and regulatory changes. In Canada, it aims to grow its presence in the property and casualty (P&C) market. Sustainability is another key driver: Aviva plans to launch more green insurance products and align its investment portfolio with net-zero pathways. The strategy also emphasises talent development; Aviva has launched the 'Aviva Academy' to upskill employees in data and digital competencies. This forward-looking approach ensures that Aviva remains competitive in a rapidly evolving industry, making it an attractive employer for ambitious finance professionals.
Products, Technologies, and Services
Aviva offers a comprehensive suite of financial products and services across life insurance, general insurance, savings, investments, and retirement solutions. In the Life insurance segment, products include term life, whole life, critical illness cover, and income protection. The General insurance portfolio covers motor, home, travel, pet, and commercial insurance. Aviva's Wealth and Retirement division provides annuities, drawdown plans, ISAs, unit trusts, and workplace pensions. The company also serves corporate clients with employee benefits, liability insurance, and risk management services.
Technology is central to Aviva's service delivery. The MyAviva online portal and mobile app allow customers to manage policies, make claims, and track investments in real-time. Aviva uses advanced data analytics and AI for underwriting and pricing, with models that incorporate thousands of variables to assess risk accurately. The company has developed a proprietary claims handling system that uses machine learning to detect fraudulent claims and streamline legitimate ones. Additionally, Aviva is pioneering telematics insurance (Aviva Drive) which uses smartphone sensors to monitor driving behaviour and reward safe drivers with lower premiums. In the commercial space, Aviva offers digital tools for brokers, including integrated policy management platforms. The company also invests in blockchain technology for secure data sharing and smart contracts. These technological innovations not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance the customer experience, reinforcing Aviva's commitment to being a digital leader in insurance.
Industries and Markets Served
Aviva serves a diverse range of industries and customer segments. In the consumer market, it provides insurance and savings products to individuals and families across different life stages – from young drivers to retirees. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Aviva offers tailored business insurance covering property, liability, and employee benefits. The corporate and institutional market includes large multinational companies, public sector organisations, and financial intermediaries. Aviva also partners with other financial institutions to distribute its products, such as banks and building societies.
Geographically, Aviva's primary markets are the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Canada. In the UK, it holds leading positions in both life and general insurance. In Ireland, Aviva is a top insurer with strong brand recognition. In Canada, the company focuses on P&C insurance and operates under the Aviva Canada brand. Historically, Aviva had significant operations in France, Poland, Italy, and Asia, but as part of its strategic simplification, it has divested most of these. The company continues to serve international customers through its global risk solutions team, which provides large commercial insurance for multinational corporations. Aviva's broad market reach means that finance professionals at the company gain exposure to multiple regulatory environments, product lines, and customer demographics, offering a rich learning environment.
Leadership and Management Philosophy
Aviva's leadership team is composed of seasoned executives with deep industry experience. CEO Amanda Blanc, who joined in 2020, previously held senior roles at AXA, Zurich, and Aviva (as chair of Aviva Europe). Her leadership style is described as decisive, transparent, and people-focused. The executive committee includes the Chief Financial Officer (Charlotte Jones), Chief Risk Officer, and heads of each business division. Aviva's management philosophy emphasises empowerment, accountability, and continuous improvement. Managers are encouraged to foster inclusive teams where diverse perspectives are valued.
The company has a clear 'Leadership Framework' that outlines expectations for all managers: Lead with clarity, engage with care, deliver with courage, and evolve with agility. This framework is integrated into performance reviews and succession planning. Aviva also invests heavily in leadership development through programmes like the Aviva Emerging Leaders Programme and partnerships with business schools such as INSEAD. The company believes that strong leadership is critical to achieving its strategic goals and retaining top talent. As a result, finance professionals at Aviva can expect to work under mentors who are committed to their growth, with regular feedback and opportunities to take on stretch assignments.
Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement
Aviva hosts and participates in numerous corporate events throughout the year, fostering knowledge sharing and networking. Internally, the company runs annual town halls, divisional summits, and innovation hackathons. Externally, Aviva sponsors industry conferences such as the Insurance Times Awards, the British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA) conference, and the World Finance Forum. Aviva also organises the Aviva Investor Day, where the leadership team presents the company's strategy and financial outlook to analysts and shareholders.
Community engagement is a core part of Aviva's corporate social responsibility. The Aviva Foundation, established in 2002, has donated over £100 million to charitable causes. Employees are encouraged to volunteer for up to 21 hours per year, and the company matches fundraising efforts. Major initiatives include financial education programmes in schools, support for mental health charities (e.g., Mind), and partnerships with organisations promoting social mobility. Aviva also runs the 'Aviva Community Fund' which provides grants to local projects. For employees, these activities create a sense of purpose and pride in their employer. Participation in events and volunteering is often recognised through internal awards, enhancing employee engagement.
Employees and Workplace Culture
Aviva employs around 30,000 people worldwide, with a significant presence in the UK, Canada, and Ireland. The company promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, with initiatives such as the 'Embrace' network for ethnic minorities, 'Pride' for LGBTQ+ colleagues, and 'Enable' for disability inclusion. Aviva has been recognised as a Top 50 Employer for Women by The Times for multiple years. The company also offers flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and remote options, to support work-life balance. Employee benefits are comprehensive: pension contributions up to 12%, private medical insurance, annual bonus schemes, and discounted products. Training and development are prioritised through the Aviva Academy, which offers online courses, certifications (e.g., CIMA, ACCA for finance roles), and leadership programmes.
The workplace culture at Aviva is often described as collaborative and supportive. Employee engagement scores are high, with over 80% of staff saying they are proud to work for Aviva in internal surveys. The company actively seeks feedback through regular 'pulse' surveys and acts on the results. Finance professionals benefit from exposure to cutting-edge financial systems, a strong emphasis on ethics and compliance, and opportunities to work across different business areas. The culture encourages innovation, with dedicated 'hack days' and an idea management platform. For the Senior Financial Analyst role, this means joining a team that values analytical rigour, continuous learning, and teamwork.
Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)
Role: Aviva Senior Financial Analyst
This is a full-time position based in Aviva’s London headquarters (with hybrid working options). The Senior Financial Analyst will report to the Head of Financial Planning & Analysis and will be a key member of the Group Finance team. The role involves supporting strategic decision-making through financial modelling, budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in financial analysis within the insurance or financial services industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain financial models to support business planning and investment decisions.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual management reports with variance analysis and commentary.
- Assist in the preparation of the group’s budget and rolling forecasts, working closely with business unit finance teams.
- Analyse financial performance against KPIs, identifying trends and risks.
- Support ad-hoc strategic projects, including M&A analysis, capital allocation scenarios, and cost optimisation initiatives.
- Present findings to senior management and provide actionable insights.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Actuarial, Risk, and Investor Relations.
- Ensure compliance with IFRS 17 and other relevant accounting standards.
- Contribute to process improvements and automation of financial reporting.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) with at least 3 years of post-qualification experience.
- Proven experience in financial analysis, planning, and reporting within the insurance or financial services sector.
- Advanced proficiency in Excel, financial modelling, and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with ability to summarise complex data.
- Experience with data visualisation tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) is desirable.
- Knowledge of IFRS 17 and Solvency II regulations is preferred.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Team player with a proactive and curious mindset.
Why Join Aviva?
Aviva offers a competitive salary range of £70,000 - £90,000 per annum, plus a bonus of up to 20% of base salary. Benefits include a generous pension scheme, health insurance, life assurance, and 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays. Employees also have access to Aviva’s discount benefits platform, employee assistance programme, and ongoing professional development opportunities. Aviva invests in its people through mentoring, secondments, and sponsorship for further qualifications. The company’s reputation as an employer of choice in the finance sector means this role provides excellent career progression prospects, both within the UK and internationally. Joining Aviva means becoming part of a company with a clear purpose, a strong commitment to sustainability, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation
Aviva’s reputation in the marketplace is shaped by customer feedback and expert evaluations across multiple platforms. While the company holds strong positions in its core markets, reviews vary by channel and product line. Below is an exhaustive analysis of Aviva’s reputation based on key review sites and industry ratings.
Glassdoor Reviews
On Glassdoor, Aviva has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on over 4,000 reviews (as of early 2025). The company scores highest for 'Culture & Values' (4.0) and 'Work-Life Balance' (4.1), reflecting its emphasis on employee wellbeing. Many employees praise the inclusive environment, flexible working, and the quality of senior leadership. However, some reviews mention bureaucratic processes and slow decision-making in certain departments. In the finance function specifically, the rating is slightly higher at 4.1, with employees highlighting the supportive team atmosphere and opportunities for growth. The CEO approval rating is 85%, indicating strong trust in Amanda Blanc’s leadership. Overall, Glassdoor suggests Aviva is a solid employer, particularly for those seeking stability and a balanced work life.
Indeed Reviews
Indeed shows Aviva with a 3.7 out of 5 star rating from over 2,000 reviews. Common positive themes include good pay, comprehensive benefits, and a friendly work environment. Negative comments often cite heavy workloads during reporting periods and occasional lack of clarity in career progression. For finance roles, the rating is 3.8, with employees noting that the role is challenging but rewarding. Indeed reviews also highlight the company’s commitment to diversity and the resources available for professional development. While not perfect, Aviva’s scores on Indeed are consistent with other large financial services firms.
Gartner Peer Insights
Aviva is not typically reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights as it is primarily an insurer, not a software vendor. However, Aviva’s technology platforms (e.g., digital claims system) are sometimes evaluated indirectly. The company has received positive mentions for its AI and analytics capabilities, with some end-users praising the user experience. Given the nature of the industry, Gartner Peer Insights is less relevant for Aviva’s core business, but its IT services are recognised as strong.
Trustpilot
Trustpilot reviews for Aviva are mixed, with an average rating of 1.8 out of 5 over 20,000 reviews. This low score is common among large insurers due to the nature of claims disputes. Customers often complain about claim handling delays, communication issues, and premium increases. Positive reviews highlight competitive pricing, useful mobile app features, and efficient online policy management. It’s important to note that Trustpilot tends to attract more negative experiences, and Aviva’s overall customer satisfaction scores in industry surveys (e.g., UK Customer Satisfaction Index) are average. The company actively responds to reviews, showing a commitment to improving service.
G2
G2 reviews for Aviva focus on its business insurance and financial software tools. The Aviva Broker platform receives a 4.0 rating for functionality, but limited reviews. Finance professionals using Aviva’s internal systems generally find them adequate but note room for improvement in integration. G2 is not a primary source for Aviva, but the available comments suggest decent performance.
Google Reviews
Google Reviews show Aviva with an average of 3.5 stars across its branches and head office. Customers appreciate the convenience of online services and professional staff, while criticisms often mirror those on Trustpilot regarding claims. The London head office has a 4.1 rating from visitors, praising the modern workspace. Overall, Google Reviews give a balanced view of Aviva’s consumer and corporate reputation.
LinkedIn Reputation
On LinkedIn, Aviva has over 1.5 million followers and maintains an active presence, sharing thought leadership on insurance trends, sustainability, and company culture. The company frequently posts about awards, employee spotlights, and innovation. The 'Life at Aviva' content receives high engagement. LinkedIn also serves as a platform for professional reviews via employee recommendations; many former and current employees endorse Aviva as a reputable employer. The LinkedIn 'Overall Rating' for Aviva is 4.0, based on employee ratings. This reflects a strong employer brand in the professional community.
In summary, Aviva enjoys a strong reputation as an employer but faces typical challenges in customer service for a large insurer. Finance professionals should expect a solid work environment with good benefits and opportunities, while being aware of the operational demands inherent in the industry.
Why Organizations Choose Aviva
Businesses of all sizes choose Aviva for its financial strength, extensive product range, and reliable service. Aviva holds an A+ credit rating from Standard & Poor’s and an A rating from Moody’s, reflecting its solid capital position. For corporate clients, Aviva offers tailored risk management solutions, such as captives, reinsurance, and bespoke employee benefits programmes. The company’s digital tools for brokers and corporate partners streamline policy administration and claims reporting. Additionally, Aviva’s commitment to sustainability aligns with many organisations’ ESG goals; its green investment funds and carbon offset programmes attract environmentally-conscious partners. The company’s brand trust and market presence also mean that being associated with Aviva provides prestige and reassurance to corporate clients.
Official Contact Information
For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Aviva using the following contact details:
Address: 80 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 4AE, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)800 051 8307
Support Number: +44 (0)345 303 3503 (Customer Services)
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)1273 837 837 (for technical support)
Website: www.aviva.com
Official Social Media Presence
Stay connected with Aviva for the latest news and career opportunities.
- LinkedIn:Aviva LinkedIn
- Twitter:@Avivaplc
- Instagram:@lifeataviva
- Facebook:Aviva UK
- YouTube:Aviva UK YouTube
SEO FAQ Section
1. What is the headquarters location of Aviva?Aviva is headquartered at 80 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 4AE, United Kingdom.
2. When was Aviva founded?Aviva traces its roots to 1696, but the modern company was formed in 2002 after the merger of CGU and Norwich Union.
3. Who is the CEO of Aviva?The CEO of Aviva is Amanda Blanc, who took over in July 2020.
4. How many employees does Aviva have?Aviva employs approximately 30,000 people worldwide as of 2024.
5. What is the main business of Aviva?Aviva is a global insurance and financial services company offering life insurance, general insurance, savings, investments, and retirement products.
6. Is Aviva a publicly traded company?Yes, Aviva is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker AV. and also has an American Depositary Receipt (ADR) on the NYSE.
7. What is Aviva's annual revenue?Aviva reported total revenue of £31.6 billion for the financial year 2023.
8. Does Aviva offer remote or hybrid work?Yes, Aviva offers flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and remote options for many roles.
9. What is the salary range for a Senior Financial Analyst at Aviva?For this specific role, the salary range is £70,000 to £90,000 per year plus performance bonus and benefits.
10. What are the key benefits of working at Aviva?Benefits include a generous pension, private medical insurance, life assurance, 25 days holiday, bonus schemes, and discounted products.
11. How does Aviva support employee development?Aviva offers the Aviva Academy, mentoring programmes, sponsorship for professional qualifications (e.g., CIMA, ACCA), and internal mobility opportunities.
12. What is Aviva's approach to sustainability?Aviva aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and has committed to investing £10 billion in climate transition assets by 2030.
13. How can I apply for a job at Aviva?You can apply through Aviva's official careers website at careers.aviva.com or via LinkedIn job postings.
14. What is the company culture like at Aviva?Aviva promotes an inclusive, collaborative, and innovative culture with a strong focus on diversity, employee wellbeing, and work-life balance.
15. What are the main competitors of Aviva?Key competitors include AXA, Prudential, Legal & General, Zurich Insurance, and Allianz, among others.
16. Does Aviva have a graduate programme?Yes, Aviva runs a Graduate Programme in multiple areas including finance, technology, actuarial, and general management.
17. What is the dress code at Aviva?Aviva has a smart casual dress code in most offices, though business attire is expected for client meetings.
18. Is Aviva a good place to work for finance professionals?Yes, finance professionals report high satisfaction due to challenging work, strong training, and career progression opportunities.
19. How does Aviva handle customer complaints?Aviva has a dedicated customer complaints team and is regulated by the Financial Ombudsman Service in the UK. They aim to resolve issues promptly.
20. What is Aviva's rating on Glassdoor?Aviva has a 3.9 out of 5 rating on Glassdoor based on over 4,000 employee reviews.
For comprehensive resources on digital marketing and corporate outreach, explore the expertise provided by Aviva on its official website. Additionally, industry professionals can enhance their online presence through Guest Post Backlinks from BIPAustin, a trusted service provider offering SEO guest posting solutions including guest post packages, outreach services, and buy guest post packages. These resources complement Aviva’s commitment to innovation and effective communication in the digital age.
