Botica joined Guardian Trust's leadership team, working in corporate trusts and national operations, in November 2009.

Sean Carroll, executive general manager of Suncorp Life NZ says with almost 30 years' experience in the financial services industry, including senior positions in superannuation and funds management, Botica is extremely well placed to take up the position.

"Since joining Guardian Trust he has gained an intimate knowledge of our business and is ideally equipped to continue steering Guardian Trust on its upward path," says Carroll.

Botica previously served as general manager wealth at AXA and during a 28-year career in the Australasian financial services industry has held senior roles in money market and lending, stock-broking, product and platform management, strategy and change management.

Botica says he is delighted and proud to be leading Guardian Trust.

"I look forward to building on our excellent track record. I also wish to thank Greg for the great contribution he has made to Guardian Trust over the past two years and wish him well in his future endeavours."

Previously, Botica has been involved in influencing elements of the governing legislation, has initiated the formation of an industry user-group, and has served on a key Ministry of Economic Development Advisory committee.