Pearce retires from Zurich, named chair at SCOR

Gavin Pearce has retired from executive life following a 40-year career in financial services.

Pearce was most recently the COO of Life and Investments with Zurich Financial Services and has held several senior roles during his time in industry including acting managing director of ANZ Wealth and the general manager of insurance with OnePath. He also held roles with Tower Australia, was the managing director of MetLife, and MD for AMP Asia.

Pearce's time for relaxing has been short-lived, as he's been named the new chair of reinsurer SCOR Global Life Australia (SGLA), replacing the retiring Peter MacKenzie. "We are absolutely thrilled to have someone of Gavin's calibre leading our Board," said SGLA CEO Dion Russell. "His life insurance expertise, long history of leadership and strategic thinking make him the ideal person for this role to support and oversee SGLA through the next evolution of our business."

Said Pearce of his new role, "I am excited and feel privileged to take over this role at a pivotal time for the life (re)insurance industry in Australia. SCOR's purpose in supporting the health of its customers and the broader population, along with its drive to continuously improve the customer journey resonate very strongly with me."

SGLA was founded in 2011.

Pearce's COO role at Zurich Financial Services has been filled by the promotion of Hilary Bates.