Southern Cross Health Insurance has appointed Grant McIvor as chief digital officer, the organisation announced this week.
McIvor (pictured) joins the insurer’s executive team to lead its digital strategy and operations.
McIvor previously held senior leadership roles, including general manager at Australian cloud technology firm Roubler and senior technology positions at MYOB. His expertise includes technology development, strategic leadership, and implementing operational frameworks for financial and enterprise systems.
Chief executive Nick Astwick said McIvor’s appointment reflects Southern Cross Health Insurance’s focus on adapting to technological and security challenges while serving its nearly one million members.
“Digital integrity has never been more important, and with nearly one million members in our care, we require exceptional leadership to continue to make it easier, more secure, and more rewarding to be with us. Having robust systems which change alongside the needs of our own people is also essential,” he said.
He added that McIvor’s extensive background in building high-performing teams and leading technology systems aligns well with the company’s culture and goals.
McIvor expressed enthusiasm about his new role, describing it as an opportunity to combine his passion for technology and health to make a positive impact for members across New Zealand.
“This opportunity allows me to make a real difference, combining innovation with a deep commitment to our community’s health,” he said.
McIvor officially started his new position on Nov. 25.
See LinkedIn post here.
Southern Cross Health Insurance’s appointment of a new chief digital officer highlights a recent Deloitte report that emphasised the need for insurers in New Zealand and Australia to collaborate more effectively with insurtech firms as the industry faces rising risks and rapid technological change.
Based on a 2024 survey of 25 insurance professionals from both nations, the study examined how traditional insurers and insurtech companies are navigating challenges such as cybersecurity, climate risk, and shifting customer preferences.
Participants represented a mix of health, life, general, and reinsurance markets, accounting for roughly one-third of gross written premiums in the region.
The report noted that both insurers and insurtechs are increasingly turning to tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance efficiency and improve customer experiences. These technologies are seen as essential for addressing long-term operational and competitive pressures.
It emphasised the mutual benefits of collaboration between insurers and insurtech firms. Traditional insurers can leverage insurtechs’ technological expertise to develop cost-effective solutions, while insurtechs benefit from the scale and market reach provided by established insurers.
