New Zealand insurance company, Fidelity Life has appointed Katherine Johnson as its new chief operating officer. 

Johnson joins Fidelity Life from Gallagher Bassett, where she is currently executive general manager of claims. Prior to this, she held various senior operations management roles with Sovereign.

In her new role, Johnson will oversee Fidelity Life’s underwriting, new business, customer services and claims teams. She will replace Neale Watling, who is retiring after a 17-year stint at the firm. Johnson will take up her new role in August 2019, and will report to Fidelity Life chief executive officer Nadine Tereora.

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Tereora said Johnson’s wealth of experience makes her an ideal candidate for the key role.

“Kath’s passionate about putting customers first and has proven experience running large, complex operations teams in the financial services industry,” Tereora said. “She’ll play a pivotal role as we continue to set the business up for a sustainable and successful future, with the customer at the centre of everything we do.”

Tereora also acknowledged Watling’s contribution to Fidelity Life.

“Neale’s a legend here and hugely respected throughout the industry,” she added. “[It] won’t be goodbye just yet, as Neale will continue working in the business, albeit in a part-time capacity for the coming months.”