It’s official – former Prudential Plc chief executive Mike Wells can now join the group management executive committee at Athora Holding Ltd following receipt of regulatory approval and confirmation of his appointment as group CEO of the savings and retirement services group.

“Mr Wells is a seasoned leader in global insurance having spent 26 years at Prudential Plc, including seven years as CEO,” noted Athora, which first announced the selection in July.

“As CEO, Mr Wells delivered meaningful shareholder value through executing two strategic demergers, accelerating the development of an Asian shareholder base through a successful equity issuance on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and transitioning the company into an Asian and African-focussed life and health insurer.”

Wells led the major insurance name until the end of March this year.

Meanwhile, also coming onboard the Athora group management executive committee effective immediately is new group general counsel Ward Bobitz, who brings more than three decades of international legal experience to the European firm.