Fidelity Life’s current chief distribution officer Adrian Riminton will, next week, move into his new role while remaining on the company’s executive team reporting to chief executive officer Melissa Cantell.

Cantell says Riminton expressed an interest in the role last year and was appointed following an extensive recruitment process which included external candidates.

“We see risk management as a business-critical function and a strategic enabler for our customer-led transformation,” Cantell says.

“With plenty more regulatory and other changes expected in the years ahead, Adrian’s broad commercial background – including last year’s stint as our acting chief executive officer - means he’s ideally placed to help lead our business through our transformation.”

Trecia Brown, Fidelity Life’s head of professional development, will act as chief distribution officer while a recruitment process is conducted.

Meanwhile, Fidelity Life’s previous chief risk officer, Anna Black, remains on the executive team as transformation lead for People, Process and Customer, a role she’s held since July last year.

Black is playing a pivotal role on Project Watson, the technology project underpinning the company’s broader transformation.

“These are truly exciting times for Fidelity life as we continue to make great progress with our customer-led transformation,” Cantell says.

“We’re focussed on delivering sustainable, profitable growth so we can build confidence and trust and continue protecting New Zealanders’ way of life.