Fidelity Life welcomes new adviser council members

Industry veterans join 10-member council as others depart

Fidelity Life welcomes new adviser council members

Life & Health

By Roxanne Libatique

Fidelity Life has announced five new appointments to its adviser council, reinforcing its collaboration with financial advisers across New Zealand.

The 10-member council provides input on Fidelity Life’s products and services, offering industry insights to help shape the insurer’s approach to market needs.

New adviser council members

The newly appointed council members are: 

  • Andrea Reid (pictured left), director and adviser – Aliya Brokers Ltd, Waikato
  • Cory Bennett (pictured right), director and adviser – Float Financial Advisers, Auckland
  • David Jochem, director and adviser – Insure Ltd, Christchurch
  • James Pearson, head of risk – Total Life, Christchurch
  • Sarah Hunger, managing director and adviser – Cura Advisers Ltd, Whanganui 

Fidelity Life chief commercial officer Bronwyn Kirwan said the new appointments strengthen the company’s engagement with the adviser community.

“We’re delighted to welcome these highly respected new members of our adviser council,” she said.

Outgoing members

The transition comes as five outgoing members conclude their terms, having served on the council since its formation in 2022.

“A heartfelt thank you to our outgoing members,” Kirwan said.  “Their expertise and guidance over the last two years has set the foundation for the strong collaboration we enjoy with the industry today.”

The departing council members are: 

  • Johny Winstone – Insurance Market
  • Emma Hunter – Financial Independence
  • Mark Breen – Total Life
  • Yang Gu – Your Generation Financial Services
  • Andrew Millar – FMG

Continuing members

The newly appointed advisers will join continuing members:

  • Josh Cuttance – SHARE NZ
  • Nick Wells – Amicus
  • Dean Logan – First Capital Financial Services
  • Karl Moran – Wealth Protection Specialists
  • Amanda Haskins – Amanda Haskins Insurance Solutions

The adviser council meets quarterly, with its first 2025 session scheduled later this month.

Fidelity Life board chair 

The adviser council member changes follow the appointment of Scott Pickering as Fidelity Life’s board chair, effective Jan. 1.

Pickering, who joined the board in July 2024, was confirmed in the role at the company’s annual general meeting on Nov. 20. He currently chairs Evolution Healthcare and serves as a board member at Kiwibank, IAG New Zealand, and Insurance Australia Group. His previous roles include CEO of ACC New Zealand and regional CEO for Willis Towers Watson in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Interim chair Lindsay Smartt, who will remain on the board as a director, said Pickering’s leadership experience aligns with Fidelity Life’s strategic direction.

“Since he joined us in July this year, he has clearly demonstrated the depth of his experience and leadership. This will be invaluable as we bring to life our three-year strategic plan and grow for the good of New Zealand,” she said.

Related Stories

Keep up with the latest news and events

Join our mailing list, it’s free!