AIA Australia appoints industry veteran to a newly created role

AIA Australia has appointed Kelly Smith to the newly created role of head of innovation, to oversee the development and implementation of AIA’s innovation capability and culture across Australia and New Zealand.

In her new role, Smith will identify and drive strategies aimed at creating new product and customer solutions to position AIA as the leading life, health and, wellbeing insurance provider across Australia and New Zealand.

Smith has more than 20 years’ experience leading strategic innovation and change within financial services, including an extensive background across superannuation, insurance and investment products, customer service, operations, product management, custody, finance, and project/program management.

Prior to her appointment, Smith was general manager of operations and insurance experience at HESTA Superannuation Fund. She also previously worked at NAB, MLC, and Colonial.

“We are very fortunate to have someone with Kelly’s extensive leadership experience and deep industry knowledge join the enterprise leadership team,” said Damien Mu, chief executive of AIA Australia and New Zealand. “AIA has a proud history when it comes to innovation and change that makes a real difference to help people live healthier, longer and better lives.”