Zurich Welcomes Fresh Leadership in Risk Management for ANZ Region

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a dynamic move, Zurich Financial Services Australia has named David Wainwright as the new Chief Risk Officer for the Australia and New Zealand region.

This follows the retirement announcement of the current CRO, Jaimie Sach, a veteran with a distinguished 30-year career in the wealth management sector.

Wainwright's appointment signifies a strategic shift aimed at bolstering Zurich's risk management operations amid an evolving financial landscape. He transitions from Zurich's life insurance division in the United Kingdom, where he likewise served as Chief Risk Officer. His expansive expertise, honed through 25 years in financial services, positions Wainwright as a key asset for Zurich ANZ.

Justin Delaney, Zurich's Chief Executive, lauded Wainwright's arrival, stating, "Mr. Wainwright's international experience and strong technical and leadership skills will further strengthen our local risk management framework. We are eager to integrate his vision and expertise into our leadership team next year."

Wainwright's career is marked by prominent roles not only within Zurich UK but also at Nomura Securities, Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS), and HSBC Global Banking and Markets. This broad spectrum of experience underlines his ability to navigate and mitigate risk in complex financial environments.

Set to commence his new role on January 6, 2025, Wainwright will be relocating to Sydney, and will report directly to Sid Medappa, the Regional Head of Risk for the Asia Pacific (APAC) division at Zurich.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the forthcoming transition, Wainwright remarked, "I am thrilled to join the Zurich team in Australia and am dedicated to advancing our robust risk management capabilities."

As the legacy bearer of a rich 30-year career, Jaimie Sach has been steering Zurich's risk management since 2019. His departure marks the end of an illustrious chapter, paving the way for Wainwright to inject new perspectives and strategies into the ANZ regional risk operations.

This announcement underscores Zurich’s commitment to fortifying its risk management strategies in an environment increasingly characterized by financial complexities. Wainwright's appointment opens a new page in securing Zurich ANZ’s resilience and proactive risk management approach.

The source of this adaptation is an original article published by Newswire on Zurich's executive appointment.

Published:Thursday, 5th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Consumer advocates are raising concerns over significant delays in processing mental health-related insurance claims by Australian superannuation funds. As mental health conditions become a leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, the efficiency of claim processing has come under scrutiny. - read more

GT Insurance Provides Flexible Solutions Amid Global Trade Shifts

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

As global trade dynamics undergo significant shifts, GT Insurance is reaffirming its commitment to supporting marine clients navigating these challenges. The recent imposition of US tariffs-25% on Australian steel and aluminium, and 10% on other exported goods-has introduced new uncertainties for local exporters, particularly in sectors like beef and bulk freight. These tariffs, effective from April 5, 2025, have prompted concerns about declining export volumes and reduced freight margins. - read more

Northern Australian Marinas Struggle with Rising Insurance Costs

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Marina operators in Northern Australia are confronting a significant crisis as insurance premiums escalate dramatically, with some experiencing increases exceeding 300% over recent years. This surge in costs is placing immense financial strain on the industry, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. - read more

Significant Rise in Australian Home Insurance Premiums in 2025

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2025, Australian homeowners experienced a substantial increase in home and contents insurance premiums, with the average annual premium rising by 14%, equating to an additional $343. This surge has placed a significant financial burden on many households, prompting concerns about the affordability and accessibility of essential insurance coverage. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Business Insurance Articles

The Top 5 Risks Small Businesses Face and How to Mitigate Them

Running a small business can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the key challenges is the variety of risks that can arise unexpectedly. These risks can range from financial uncertainties to operational hiccups, each potentially impacting your business's success. Understanding these risks and preparing for them is crucial for the longevity and sustainability of any small enterprise. - read more

Professional Indemnity vs Public Liability: What's the Best Choice for Your Small Business?

As a small business owner, understanding the intricacies of liability insurance is pivotal to safeguarding the fruit of your hard work. Insurances such as professional indemnity and public liability are not just safety nets; they are vital components that can mean the difference between bouncing back and closing down following unforeseen legal hurdles. - read more

Freelancer or Employee? Understanding the Difference and the Liability Implications

The contemporary business landscape in Australia is witnessing a significant shift towards the gig economy, with a growing number of professionals opting for the flexibility and autonomy that freelancing offers. This trend has not only revolutionized the way work is performed but has also introduced new dynamics in the legal distinctions between freelancers and traditional employees. - read more

The Importance of Documentation in Public Liability Claims

Public liability insurance is an essential part of any business's risk management strategy, especially for those operating in Australia. It's designed to protect businesses when they're found legally responsible for injury or damage to third parties due to their operations. But what happens when you need to make a claim? That's where understanding the claims process becomes vital. - read more

Start Here !

Knowledgebase

Copayment:
A fixed amount you pay for a covered healthcare service, usually when you receive the service.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.