Suncorp’s priorities this year are improving performance, strengthening trust, reaping the benefits of technology investments and driving operational efficiency, CEO Steve Johnston said today.

“Over the past two years we have invested heavily in digital capability and improved our ability to use and analyse data,” he told the group’s AGM in Brisbane. “It’s now time to leverage that investment.”

He says the company has a “comprehensive program” of work planned for this fiscal year to further scale its digital capability.

Mr Johnston was appointed CEO earlier this month after acting in the role on an interim basis since late May following the departure of Michael Cameron.

He told the meeting Suncorp will remain focused on improving operational efficiencies.

“With a decade of big programs behind us, we have all the tools and capability we need to keep automating, digitising and reengineering our processes,” he said.

The group is also adapting to regulatory change following the Hayne royal commission and focusing on consumer outcomes.

Mr Johnston says a board customer committee, announced at last year’s meeting, is looking at progress in addressing systemic trends in complaints, supporting vulnerable customers and ensuring products and services are accessible and represent fair value.

Improving insurance performance overall will involve reinvigorating the multi-brand strategy, underwriting discipline, developing new and innovate products, claims handling and using reinsurance to reduce earnings volatility.

He says one of the “pillars” of his leadership will be investing in and supporting the Suncorp team through a period of workplace change.

Chairman Christine McLoughlin highlighted Suncorp’s focus on climate change issues as it comes under pressure from environmental campaign group Market Forces to cut its ties with fossil fuels.

The company today handed out factsheets to shareholders on its commitment to the environment and Ms McLoughlin told the AGM that addressing climate change is considered a high priority by the board.

She says Suncorp is using a “shadow carbon price” to assess and manage its investment exposures, which will assist an “orderly response” to carbon-intensive industries as the economy transitions. It is also collaborating with reinsurers and climate scientists.

“While we have come a long way in how we understand and incorporate environmental, social and governance considerations in our business operations, I acknowledge there is still more work to do and we are committed to doing that,” she said.