Chris Black has assumed the role of chair at Southern Cross Medical Care Society (Health Society), succeeding Murray Jordan, who retired from the position during the organisation’s annual general meeting on Dec. 4.
Black (pictured) has been part of the Health Society’s board since 2021 and was appointed as a trustee in late 2023. His election as chair was confirmed by the board following Jordan’s departure.
In a statement, Health Society CEO Nick Astwick highlighted Black’s expertise and alignment with the organisation’s priorities.
“Alongside his very relevant experience working with member-based and financial services organisations, Chris has a genuine passion for ensuring all that we do is in the best interests of our members. We look forward to working with Chris in his role as chair, with our aligned focus on empowering our members to live well for longer,” he said.
Black’s professional background includes a 13-year tenure as chief executive of Farmers Mutual Group (FMG), where he initially served as an independent director. He has also held leadership roles with the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ), serving as president for three years, and with the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme as a commissioner.
His other governance roles include eight years on the board of the International Cooperative & Mutual Insurance Federation, where he served as vice chair for two years.
Since 2022, Black has been a director of Southern Cross Pet Insurance (SCPI), in addition to his roles as chair of Rabobank New Zealand and the Natural Hazards Commission (NHC). He is also a trustee for the Southern Cross Health Trust and the Mental Health Foundation.
Astwick expressed gratitude for Jordan’s service, noting his contributions during his tenure as chair and his guidance in steering the organisation through significant milestones.
“On behalf of everyone in our member-led Health Society, I would like to express our sincere thanks to Murray for his outstanding leadership of our board, and my personal appreciation for his guidance and wisdom while I’ve had the privilege of working with him,” he said.
Southern Cross’s recent leadership appointment spree – including the appointment of Southern Cross Health Insurance’s new chief digital officer and Southern Cross Healthcare’s new chief operating officer for the organisation’s 10 wholly owned hospitals – comes as the life and health insurance sector faces affordability challenges.
A recent report from the Financial Services Council (FSC) of New Zealand has shed light on how cost-of-living pressures are influencing insurance coverage decisions among New Zealanders.
The report identified affordability as a critical barrier to securing life and health insurance, despite the financial security these products are designed to provide.
It also revealed that most policyholders pay for their insurance out of pocket, with fewer receiving subsidies or employer-provided coverage. While overall coverage rates remain low, more than 90% of those insured believe their policies offer good value.
