MLC Life appoints new business head

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist, Financial Newswire

12 April 2023

MLC Life Insurance has announced the appointment of Peter Smith as its new Head of Business Development, as the insurer moves to expand its group insurance strategy.

An “experienced industry veteran” who has spent time in senior roles at Resolution Life, Munich Re, Lockton and MetLife, Smith will lead the implementation of MLC Life’s new business development strategy – a group insurance digital solution to help super funds streamline the insurance journey for members.

“Following a period of stabilisation, we’re excited to return to focus on sustainably managing risk and growth across the business, particularly in the group insurance space,” Kent Griffin, MLC Life Insurance Chief Executive Officer, said.

“Peter is a key appointment to our team and shows how focused we are on demonstrating how our total customer experience benefits both trustees and superannuation fund members.”

Smith has also held leadership positions at Hostplus, Cbus, Rest and First Super, helping to lead the development of insurance solutions for super fund members.

“MLC Life has gone through a period of massive transformation and Peter’s significant experience and outstanding commercial mindset will position us well as we continue to build a highly skilled team and offer a competitive advantage to our partners and their members,” Mark Puli, MLC Life Insurance Chief Group Officer, said.

“Our ability to deliver an excellent member experience, including through digital integration, helps us meet and exceed the expectations of members, and Peter will help us make that case to our current and prospective partners.”

“As part of the global Nippon Life Group, few are better placed to understand member needs and the ethos of Australia’s industry super funds than MLC Life Insurance as the only true mutual in life insurance, and I’m looking forward to making that case to trustees,” Smith said.