Fidelity Life announces Scott Pickering as incoming board chair.

Media release.

20 November 2024.

The board of New Zealand’s largest 100% locally owned life insurer, Fidelity Life, is delighted to announce the appointment of Scott Pickering as chair of its Board of Directors effective 1 January 2025.

A veteran of both governance and insurance, Pickering’s appointment was announced at Fidelity Life’s annual general meeting on 20 November.

“He’s the perfect person to lead our board,” says interim Chair, Lindsay Smartt. “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. He is committed to our ambition to double in value and grow into not just a great life insurer but a great New Zealand company. Lindsay will continue on the board as a director.

In addition to his role on the Fidelity Life board, Pickering is also chair of Evolution Healthcare, on the boards of Kiwibank, ASX listed Insurance Australia Group, IAG New Zealand,  Engage Consulting and Bowls New Zealand, is an Advisor to HealthNow and Bain & Co, and was previously on the board of Chubb in New Zealand and Australia.

Pickering was Chief Executive of ACC New Zealand for more than eight years, where he led a major business transformation, and also held Regional CEO roles with Willis Towers Watson in Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Following the announcement, CEO Campbell Mitchell said the team is looking forward to working with Pickering, and thanked Smartt for stepping in as interim chair, after Brian Blake stepped down in April this year.