AIA revamps its distribution team

The insurer has appointed Matt O’Rourke as Head of Strategic Accounts and Retail. His background is in banking and relationship management. Most recently he was a Senior Partner within BNZ’s Commercial Agri and Business Banking team. Before that he spent 35 years at ASB, including as Head of Private and Premium Banking.

“Matt is a highly respected leader with a strong track record in working with complex, nationwide relationships,” Chief Distribution Officer Jonathan Beale says. “His energy, commercial mindset and understanding of distribution will be a real asset.”

Travis Higgins has been appointed Head of Aligned Advice, reflecting the strategic importance of this channel to AIA NZ’s long-term growth. Higgins is well known across the business and adviser community, with 18 years’ experience at AIA NZ spanning Claims, Underwriting, New Business and Existing Business leadership roles.

“Travis brings deep operational knowledge and a highly collaborative leadership style,” Beale says. “He understands what advisers need to succeed and I’m confident he will continue to lift outcomes for aligned advisers and their clients.”