Nick Astwick is leaving the health insurer, after nearly a decade in the role.
Nick Astwick.
Southern Cross chief executive Nick Astwick has revealed he is leaving the organisation, after nearly a decade in the role.
He will leave at the end of September to pursue a portfolio career, following the insurer’s annual reporting to members.
Southern Cross chair Chris Black said the board was “deeply appreciative” of Astwick’s leadership, and his commitment to a smooth and orderly transition as it looked for a suitable replacement.
“Under Nick’s leadership, Southern Cross Health Society has grown its total membership and substantially modernised the organisation, all while continuing to deliver exceptional service in the moments that matter most to members.”
Astwick had successfully navigated the society through the “challenging financial headwinds experienced across the entire health insurance sector” and had also led the development of a strategic blueprint for the organisation through to its 75th anniversary in 2036.
“Nick can rightly be proud of his achievements as CEO at a time of immense external change and increasing regulation. Throughout, Nick’s steadfast belief in Southern Cross Health Society and the vital role it plays in the broader New Zealand health ecosystem on behalf of its approximate 950,000 members has provided a true north‑point for others to follow.”
Astwick said his focus had been to modernise the organisation. “We invested for long-term impact, navigated the Covid years as well as major structural shifts in healthcare demand, and I believe Southern Cross remains a market leader and is well placed to serve our members well into the future.”
Following his departure from Southern Cross, he planned to continue in governance roles as a director and investor, with a focus on transformation and growth.
This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.
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