Travel insurer Cover-More has appointed a new Group CIO and named Todd Nelson to the role of MD Australia as it prepares for opportunities with the reopening of borders and the winding back of pandemic-related restrictions.

UK-based Conor Breslin joins the Zurich-owned insurer in the technology position after holding the role of Group CIO for Provident Financial Group and Vanquis Bank in the UK.

“As we continue to evolve our app-based customer propositions and open up a new world of travel protection for travellers, the role of CIO is critical to ensure our technology is best in class,” Group CEO Cara Morton said last week.

“Conor brings a wealth of industry experience that will underpin our continued strong emergence from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global travel and the travel industry.”

Former Group CIO Nicki Doble remains with the business until the end of next month as a strategic adviser and to facilitate the transition.

Cover-More also says it has created a new Australia MD role, to be filled by Mr Nelson, and is expanding the responsibilities of New Zealand head Will Ashcroft following the resignation of Asia Pacific CEO Judith Crompton, who leaves at the end of the year.

Mr Nelson, who has held roles including EGM Group Digital Sales at Cover-More will be responsible for distribution partnerships and operations in Australia after taking up the position from January 1.

Mr Ashcroft becomes MD New Zealand and New Business ANZ, with the expanded responsibilities to include strategic business development across Australia and New Zealand.

“We expect the travel rebound for both countries to be considerable and this leadership will allow each country to embark on a specific and ambitious rebound strategy,” a spokesman told insuranceNEWS.com.au.