Rothbury Insurance Brokers has appointed Shane Ohlin to the newly created role of chief information officer (CIO), adding him to its executive leadership team (ELT).
Ohlin (pictured) brings more than 25 years of experience in the information technology sector, having served in senior roles across New Zealand and Australia, including positions with AIA Group, Spark New Zealand, and One New Zealand.
Roger Abel, managing director of Rothbury Group, said that Ohlin’s role will focus on managing the company’s IT services and leveraging digital tools to enhance client engagement and support business growth.
He said the inclusion of a seasoned IT executive is expected to further solidify the company’s commitment to high-quality client service.
Ohlin said that he was eager to build on the work already underway at Rothbury.
“I see Rothbury as an organisation which is prepared to innovate to match and exceed clients’ expectations,” he said.
This appointment comes after the resignation of Sheila Redelinghuys, who served as executive general manager of digital transformation.
Redelinghuys, who joined Rothbury in 2004 and became part of the ELT in 2014, was acknowledged by Abel for her contributions to the company.
“When Sheila resigned, we decided to combine all our IT functions under a new chief information officer role. As we welcome a new addition to our ELT, I want to acknowledge and thank Sheila for her outstanding contribution to Rothbury. She will be missed, and we wish her and her husband Carel all the very best with their next chapter,” Abel said.
The leadership changes follow the completion of Rothbury Group’s acquisition of Austinsure, previously owned by Steadfast Group NZ Holdings Limited.
The deal, effective March 15, represents a significant growth step for Rothbury and coincides with the departure of Austinsure’s managing director, Neil Austin, who will pursue new ventures.
Abel said the acquisition benefits both companies’ clients and employees.
“Rothbury’s investment enables Austinsure to further enhance the high level of service provided to their clients by leveraging Rothbury’s services, products, and technology infrastructure. Similarly, Rothbury clients will benefit from the aviation and professional indemnity expertise that Austinsure is renowned for,” he said.
He also said that expanding the company’s reach and team has been a central part of Rothbury’s strategy, and the partnership with Austinsure is a key step in that direction.
