Philip Morris-owned life insurance distributor ramps up despite criticisms

“Where will Philip Morris diversify next – perhaps into funeral homes, with Marlboro-branded coffins?” was the rhetorical question posed by Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids president Matthew Myers in April when the cigarette giant entered the world of UK coverage via its life insurance distributor Reviti.

Now Insurance Business can reveal that the Philip Morris unit has ramped up despite the criticisms.

Reviti’s team in London, led by chief executive Daniel Pender, has been augmented with the arrival of product & services director Chris Ardron, risk & compliance director Andrew Palfrey, and senior counsel Stephanie Fuller. The latter brings experience from the likes of MetLife; Ardron, Swiss Re; and Palfrey, Santander.

Commenting on the new recruits, Pender – former Zurich UK Life CEO – said: “The Reviti team are all innovators in insurance, passionate about developing propositions and businesses that make a real difference to the consumer. Rethinking life insurance requires some of the best talent in the business as these key new appointments demonstrate.”

Currently also part of the London team is chief marketing officer Nicola Charles, who previously worked at firms such as Churchill and Hastings Direct.

The Philip Morris subsidiary, whose insurance policies are provided by Scottish Friendly, is looking to recruit more than 20 executives in the coming year.