The announcement was made at a gala dinner in Auckland last night, held as part of the FSC’s first in-person conference since the start of the pandemic.

The awards recognise the outstanding achievement and contribution of individuals, teams and businesses across the financial services sector and this year attracted a record number of entries, says FSC chief executive Richard Klipin.

“This is the first in-person conference we've been able to hold in several years due to the pandemic,” Klipin says. “During this time, the sector has stepped up and weathered the covid storm, continuing to innovate, deliver services and products, manage regulation and change and serve New Zealanders during incredibly challenging times.

“The FSC’s strategic vision is to grow the financial confidence and wellbeing of New Zealanders, and the finalists and winners are a testament to the outstanding work that has been done across the industry when it comes to improving consumer outcomes.

“We congratulate all the winners for your mahi, your passion and your dedication to financial wellbeing of all New Zealanders.”

Klipin says the winners across the seven awards categories reflect depth, talent and capability in a growing sector that aims to help New Zealanders be better with money.

“From growing organisations that have launched new products to established entities that have innovated in times of great change and leaders who continue to shape the industry for the better, these winners reflect the very best work our industry is doing.”

The winners are:

• Chairman’s award for service to the industry: Russell Hutchinson, Chatswood Consulting
• Emerging leader award: Dean Anderson, Kernel Wealth
• Team of the year award: It Starts With Action Working Group
• Improving consumer outcomes award: Whai Rawa Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu
• Governance award: New Zealand Automobile Association
• Innovation and wellbeing award: AIA New Zealand – Product and Investment Team
• Workplace savings award: Chye Heng, Beca

Highly commended:

• Partners Life – Claims Team (Team of the Year Award)
• Merc