ClearView makes senior appointments

Orla Cowan joins ClearView from ANZ Global Wealth, where she was head of CIO governance, and will report to ClearView managing director Simon Swanson, according to a statement.

Prior to ANZ Global Wealth, Ms Cowan was head of compliance at BlackRock Australia from 2010 to 2014 and held a number of senior compliance roles at Challenger Financial Services Group from 2003 to 2010.

Her appointment follows the board’s decision to increase investment in risk management, compliance and strategy.

As part of further changes, the role of chief actuary and risk officer has been separated, with Greg Martin appointed to the newly-created position of general manager, strategy.

Mr Martin will have responsibility for overseeing the group’s strategy and execution in addition to the ongoing management of the actuarial and product management functions.

He will be actively involved in the implementation of ClearView’s reinvigorated technology strategy and roadmap, enhanced life insurance and wealth management offering and financial advice strategy.

Mr Swanson said the appointment of Ms Cowan strengthened the group’s leadership team during an important period for the company.

“Orla brings with her significant experience in financial and non-financial risk management, compliance and governance,” Mr Swanson said.

“She has worked in senior risk and compliance roles across many financial institutions for over 20 years and will continue developing our risk and compliance culture, as we focus on assisting advisers and customers to navigate all the changes occurring in both the economy and financial services.”

Further, Mr Swanson said Mr Martin is an experienced professional who is passionate about promoting the long-term sustainability of the industry and strengthened consumer protections.

“I have valued his counsel and advice as chief actuary and risk officer for the past eight years and I look forward to working with him in his new role,” Mr Swanson said.

Adrian Flores

Adrian Flores is a deputy editor at Momentum Media, focusing mainly on banking, wealth management and financial services. He has also written for Public Accountant, Accountants Daily and The CEO Magazine.

You can contact him on [email protected].