ClearView Wealth has announced the retirement of managing director Simon Swanson effective from 1 July, alongside the internal appointment of Nadine Gooderick to chief executive to take over in his stead.
Ms Gooderick, who was group executive for technology and development, joined ClearView in 2020 as general manager for transformation. She was promoted to the group executive role in August 2022 with responsibility for the firm’s technology, data, and marketing functions.
Before this, she spent almost 25 years at RGA Reinsurance, which included eight years as chief operating officer for Australia and New Zealand.
Commenting on the major leadership transition, ClearView chair Geoff Black thanked Mr Swanson for his contributions to ClearView and the broader life insurance industry.
“As the group’s inaugural managing director, Simon has led ClearView to become one of Australia’s leading life insurance companies,” Mr Black said.
“Over the last few years, in particular, he has successfully guided the business through a period of enormous disruption, and regulatory and structural change. He leaves the business strongly positioned to continue its growth, and capitalise on an improving life insurance market.”
In response, Mr Swanson said it had been his “privilege” to lead the business for the past 12 years.
“Our vision, when we established this business, was to be a dynamic challenger and differentiate ourselves by being easy to do business with and by delivering a superior customer experience. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved,” Mr Swanson added.
Mr Black also went on to congratulate Ms Gooderick on her appointment on behalf of ClearView’s board: “Nadine is a well-respected, proven business leader with over 25 years life insurance experience working across the Asia-Pacific region.”
To this end, Mr Black said that Ms Gooderick’s contributions to date had reinforced the board’s preference for an internal appointment in the search for a new chief executive.
“We are extremely fortunate to have someone of her high calibre to lead ClearView into the future,” he concluded.
Moreover, Ms Gooderick commented on the close working relationship she had built with both Mr Swanson and the executive leadership team since joining ClearView.
“We are all committed to ensuring a seamless leadership transition with minimal disruption to our staff, customers, and business partners,” she said.
“I am looking forward to helping shape ClearView’s future growth and aspirations as we continue our transformation program to simplify and strengthen the foundation of our business, positioning ClearView to explore new opportunities using emerging digital technologies.”
