Chubb Life NZ expands South Island adviser support team

Industry vet focuses on adviser relationships and regional growth

Chubb Life NZ expands South Island adviser support team

Life & Health

By Roxanne Libatique

Chubb Life Insurance New Zealand Limited (Chubb Life NZ) has named James Dunbar (pictured) as its new business partnership manager for the South Island, a move that underscores the company’s focus on strengthening relationships with independent financial advisers (IFAs) in the region.

Role to support adviser engagement

Dunbar, who commenced his role in September, is responsible for building and maintaining connections with IFAs from Mid Canterbury to Invercargill.

His appointment is intended to support the company’s adviser network and ensure that Chubb Life NZ continues to deliver value to its partners.

Mike Doherty, South Island regional manager at Chubb Life NZ, has welcomed Dunbar to the leadership team, saying that he brings a strong track record in building business relationships and offers a new perspective to our operations.

“His proven ability for creating meaningful business relationships, combined with his fresh perspective in the industry, will further strengthen our commitment to supporting advisers across the South Island and ensure we continue to deliver exceptional value and partnership,” Doherty said.

Executive leadership changes in 2025

Dunbar’s arrival follows a period of executive transition at Chubb Life NZ. Earlier in 2025, the company announced two key appointments to its executive team.

In March, Jaco Grobbelaar was confirmed as the incoming chief financial officer, with his start date set for April 28, subject to regulatory approval.

Grobbelaar brings more than 25 years of experience in insurance and financial services, having held senior positions in New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. His background includes roles at Sovereign (now part of AIA), Westpac, and Partners Life, where he managed financial operations and contributed to the company’s strategic initiatives.

Grobbelaar is a Chartered Accountant and has completed executive development at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.

New chief executive officer to lead growth

In the same month, Chubb Life NZ appointed Paula ter Brake as chief executive officer, effective May 5, pending regulatory clearance.

Ter Brake succeeds Gail Costa, who retired after overseeing the company’s transition from Cigna to Chubb Life.

Ter Brake’s responsibilities include expanding Chubb Life’s financial protection services in New Zealand and working with advisers, distribution partners, and direct marketing channels.

With three decades of experience in retail banking and insurance, ter Brake has held leadership roles at IAG New Zealand, Tower Insurance, First Citizen Asset Management, and GE Money. Her background includes business transformation and digital strategy.

Related Stories

Keep up with the latest news and events

Join our mailing list, it’s free!