MLC Life Insurance independent non-executive director Craig Dunn has been appointed chair of Acenda.

He will take the role on completion of the merger between MLC and Resolution Life Australasia, which is expected in the second half of this year.

As reported last December, the two insurers will combine under the Acenda name as part of MLC majority owner Nippon Life’s $US8.2 billion ($13.17 billion) acquisition of Bermuda-based Resolution.

MLC has adopted the Acenda brand immediately and Resolution Life Australasia will transition to it after the transaction.

Nippon Life president Hiroshi Shimizu says Mr Dunn brings more than 30 years’ experience in financial services and is highly regarded for his board expertise and knowledge of the life sector.

MLC chair Peter Grey will retire from the board once the merger is completed.