We understand that times have been challenging, and we are committed to improving all aspects of the advice process from product design to technology solutions to operational efficiency. These principles underpin our operating model and our recent key appointments designed to support our integrated service program. These include;
- Joanne Faglioni to the newly created role of Chief Claims Officer.
The Claims portfolio includes both retail and group claims across Zurich and OnePath Life. Sheriff Hamza is appointed to the role of Head of Retail Claims, whilst Jennifer Faglioni is appointed Head of Group Claims.
- Peter Tilocca as Chief Underwriting Officer
- Tina Beilby to the newly created role of Head of Operations, Integration
These changes will formally bring the Zurich and OnePath underwriting and claims teams together under the functional leadership of Peter and Joanne respectively, creating one of the largest groups of specialised life underwriters and claims personnel in Australia.
We are also committed to growing sustainably, and to ensure we can continue to protect your clients now and into the future. With this in mind, we have decided to adjust our income protection rates, for new business only. Our flagship wealth protection range will continue to deliver excellent quality, choice and value, now and in the future.
The new rates will be automatically applied when quoting new business through the Zurich Adviser Portal from September 5. Any quotes generated from the Zurich Adviser Portal prior to September 5 and saved will be honoured for maximum of 60 days from the date of the quote.
You spoke we listened - we are pleased to have launched an important initiative - My Wellbeing Hub. My Wellbeing Hub is full of mental health and wellbeing content to help deepen your understanding, know how you can support your clients and provide coaching and tips for different situations. My Wellbeing Hub is built on four key pillars, each with carefully curated and regularly updated resources, articles and partner links:
- Mental wellbeing – ways to manage mental health, stress and sleep including resources from SuperFriend and Benestar.
- Nutrition and fitness – tips for healthy living from HealthLogix and Lee Holmes, Holistic Health Coach.
- Community – health and wellness organisations that can help you be at your best. Includes the Tackle Your Feelings mental health training program for local footy clubs, Mr Perfect grassroots “pre-crisis” charity and the Raise Foundation youth mentoring.
- Tools and support – links to financial adviser support resources from AFA Care and FPA Wellbeing, as well as national support services such as R U OK?, Lifeline and Beyond Blue.
This content will be useful for you to be able to use with your clients, your staff or even yourself. The Hub can be accessed by anyone at any time at zurich.com.au/mywellbeinghub
We have had increased requests off the back of our Virtual Conference Series to hear more from Matt Drennan on some of the macro issues facing Australia’s economy. You can read through Matt’s latest article in this edition of Adviser News.
Finally, we’re excited to let you know that Zurich and OnePath are supporting the AFA conference in 2020 (October 14 and 15). Delivered virtually this year, you can expect the same high quality conference program including inspiring speakers, informative industry panels and valuable learning takeaways that you’ve come to expect from an AFA conference - only delivering them to you in the comfort of your own home or office. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to see you in person this year, although we are looking forward to sharing with you some exciting initiatives that we have been working on.
Thank you again, and stay safe.