Partners Life has named Mark Schollum as its incoming chief financial officer, with his tenure set to begin in March 2025.
Schollum (pictured) brings over 20 years of experience, including six years as CFO at Cigna and Chubb Life. His background includes leadership in finance operations, managing mergers and acquisitions, and fostering sustainable business growth.
He is a Chartered Accountant and holds a bachelor of commerce with honours from the University of Otago. He is also a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors.
“I’m thrilled to join such a customer-focused and innovative team. The life and health insurance industry in New Zealand is evolving fast, and I look forward to making my contribution to Partners Life’s purpose: building a brighter and more secure future for all New Zealanders,” Schollum said.
Michael Weston, Partners Life’s CEO, highlighted Schollum’s extensive expertise and leadership track record.
“Mark’s significant financial expertise and proven leadership abilities will make him an invaluable member of our team. I’m looking forward to working with him to achieve Partners Life’s strategic goals,” he said.
The announcement of a new CFO follows the appointment of Mary-Jane (MJ) Daly as a member of Partners Life’s board of directors, effective Dec. 2.
Daly brings significant governance experience, having served as chair of AIG Insurance New Zealand and the Fonterra Shareholders’ Fund. She also holds directorships with Kiwi Property Group and Kiwibank Limited.
She will assume the role of chair on Feb. 1, 2025. She will replace Jim Minto, who will step down after eight years in the role.
Partners Life has been reorganising its executive team to enhance operations and expand its market presence.
As part of the recent restructure, Andries van Graan has been promoted to chief distribution officer. Formerly the chief of adviser distribution, van Graan now oversees efforts to broaden distribution channels, including collaboration with independent advisers and the company’s referral partnership with Bank of New Zealand.
In another leadership move, Kate Dron has been appointed as chief customer solutions officer. Previously chief and appointed actuary, Dron now concentrates on refining the company’s product offerings and spearheading a new data and analytics initiative designed to improve customer experiences and product innovation.
