MLC Life Insurance has appointed Mark Puli, CEO of ESSSuper, as its new Chief Group Insurance Officer following changes made to the structure of its Life Insurance Division.

Following a review, the company’s Group Insurance team will become a separate, standalone function reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer Rodney Cook. The Retail Insurance team will continue to remain in the Life Insurance Division, under the leadership of Chief Life Insurance Officer Michael Rogers.

Mark will join MLC Life Insurance in late January 2022. He will replace outgoing Chief Group Insurance Officer, Sean Williamson.

Mark has more than 30 years’ experience in financial services. Most recently he was the CEO at ESSSuper since 2011, after initially joining the fund in 2009 as Chief Financial Officer. He has held senior roles at Aviva Australia, Merrill Lynch Investment Management and Mercer. His expertise includes superannuation, investment platforms, funds management, strategy and product development.

Rodney Cook, Chief Executive Officer, MLC Life Insurance, said:

“The life insurance industry continues to undergo significant change, particularly in group insurance. Given our ambition to grow our presence in the group market, the Board and I believe the time is right for it to become a separate, standalone division, reporting directly to me. We believe this change will provide even stronger support for our existing and future group partners.

“As a result of this proposed change, we began an extensive internal and external executive search to find the right candidate for the role. I’m delighted to welcome Mark to MLC Life Insurance. He brings a wealth of experience and an exceptional depth of understanding about superannuation, group insurance, and how to provide the best experience for members.”

Mark Puli, Chief Group Insurance Officer, said:

“I’m thrilled to be joining MLC Life Insurance and Rodney’s leadership team at this important time. Life insurance inside superannuation is a fundamental vehicle to deliver protection to millions of Australians, and I’m excited for the opportunity to group our presence in the market.”

Sean Williamson

MLC Life insurance also acknowledges the significant role that Sean Williamson has played over recent years. He has been an important member of the leadership team and has made a strong contribution to MLC Life Insurance in the group market.

Rodney Cook said:

“I’d like to thank Sean for his strong contribution and commitment to our superannuation partners and our business, as well as for his committed leadership of the group insurance team. I wish Sean well as he moves into the next phase of his career.”