The head of Aviva was today given the backing of his bosses after it emerged he had had an affair with a member of staff.

The head of Aviva was today given the backing of his bosses after it emerged he had had an affair with a member of staff.

Details of the relationship between Andrew Moss, chief executive of the insurance giant and human resources director Deidre Moffat, who is married to the groups European HR director were revealed in a national newspaper.

Ms Moffat, 45, and Mr Moss, who received �2.2m in pay and bonuses last year, have separated from their spouses and are now a couple.

Ms Moffat - who is now known as Deirdre Galvin - reported directly to the chief executive while on secondment to his office on a company project.

She resigned 10 days ago by mutual agreement to avoid a conflict of interest, although her husband Andrew Moffat is still at the firm in the same role.

The details of the affair emerged on the eve of a major Aviva, formerly known as Norwich Union, presentation to investors on plans to restructure the company's European operations.

Aviva chairman Lord Sharman said there had been no breach of company rules, and told the newspaper he was 'completely satisfied' that it did not impact on his role as chief executive.

In a statement to the Times Lord Sharman said Mr Moss, promoted to the top job from finance director 2� years ago, had behaved appropriately over the affair, which is now a firm relationship.

'Andrew has been very open with me and I am clear that there has been no breach of company rules,' he said. 'I am completely satisfied that this has in no way impacted his role as chief executive and he retains my full confidence.'