Zurich Australia and New Zealand CEO Justin Delaney and Auto & General Asia Pacific CEO Ram Kangatharan have been appointed to the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) board following the annual general meeting yesterday.

“The new appointments bring extensive experience in both general insurance and financial services to the board at what is a pivotal time for the general insurance industry,” ICA President Nick Hawkins said.

Mr Delaney has served as Zurich CEO since July 2021 and has more than 25 years’ experience in financial services, holding various senior positions. He also holds board positions with the Council of Australian Life Insurers and the Financial Services Council. Zurich has been an ICA member since 1983.

“As the only major composite - life and general - insurer in the market, Zurich is in a unique position to understand the needs and issues affecting both individuals and businesses across the country,” Mr Delaney said today.

“I look forward to sharing Zurich’s perspectives as we work together to shape positive outcomes for consumers, communities and members.”

Mr Kangatharan joined Auto & General in 2012 following five years at Bank of Queensland where he was CFO and then COO.

The appointments were made for a 12-month term, while outgoing Youi CEO Hugo Schreuder has stepped down from the board.

The board also includes ICA CEO Andrew Hall, Deputy President and Hollard Holdings Australia MD Richard Enthoven, QBE Australia Pacific CEO Sue Houghton, Allianz Australia MD Richard Feledy, Avant Mutual Group CEO Natasha Fenech, Munich Australasia MD Scott Hawkins, Suncorp CEO Steve Johnson, Chubb Country President Peter Kelaher, Lloyd’s General Representative in Australia Chris Mackinnon and RACT CIO Paul Sofronoff.