Suncorp appoints new NZ CEO

Suncorp Group has announced the permanent appointment of Jimmy Higgins as CEO of Suncorp New Zealand, effective immediately.

Before assuming the role of acting CEO in July 2020, Mr Higgins has served as Suncorp New Zealand’s chief financial officer and has also held roles as executive general manager, claims.

Prior to joining Suncorp in 2008, Mr Higgins worked as a chartered accountant, specialising in audit and forensic accounting.

Mr Higgins has held roles with McGrathNicol, KPMG Australia and Queensland Police.  

Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston welcomed Mr Higgins’ appointment, noting his experience in the financial services industry.

“Jimmy has been a valuable member of Suncorp’s leadership team for many years and has made a strong contribution to the operational and financial strength of our New Zealand business,” Mr Johnston said. 

“He has held a number of roles in our insurance businesses in Australia and New Zealand and has been instrumental in leading the group’s response to some of the worst natural hazard events in our history, including the Christchurch earthquakes and 2011 Queensland floods. 

“I’m delighted to have Jimmy permanently join Suncorp’s executive leadership team. I’m confident his extensive insurance experience, leadership capabilities and established relationships with the external market position him well to build on the strong momentum in our New Zealand business.” 

Mr Higgins commented: “We are a strong and respected brand in New Zealand and our business has gone from strength to strength in recent years.

“I’m excited to be leading the team into its next phase of growth as we continue to deliver more for our customers and broker partners.”

[Related: Suncorp overhauls serviceability policy]