Paul Taylor, former president of the Insurance Corporation of B.C., has resigned as chair of the ICBC board after a year and a half in that position.

ICBC issued a brief statement saying Jatinder Rai, a member of the board of directors since 2008, has been appointed interim chair. A spokesman declined further comment on the reason for Taylor's departure.

"Mr. Taylor was appointed chair in July 2012 and his leadership has helped guide the corporation through challenging times, including the downsizing and restructuring of the company in late 2012," the ICBC statement said.

ICBC imposed a 4.9 per cent rate increase for basic vehicle insurance in November, citing increasing injury claims and higher payouts. That followed an 11 per cent increase in basic insurance rates in 2012.

ICBC cut 260 positions in 2012 after an audit of its operations showed its management ranks had increased 41 per cent between 2007 and 2011.

Taylor resigned as president of ICBC in May of 2008.