MLC Life Insurance says Koji Ichiba has joined as a board director and member of its executive team.

Mr Ichiba was most recently based in Tokyo as Nippon Life’s GM of overseas life insurance.

He replaces Tomonao Gotoda, who is returning to Tokyo to become GM Global Business Planning Department within the Nippon Life Insurance Group.

Nippon Life owns 80% of MLC, the entity that operates the MLC Life Insurance business, with National Australia Bank holding the remaining 20%.

MLC Life Insurance CEO Kent Griffin says Mr Ichiba’s appointment is “a sign of the close working relationship between Nippon Life and MLC Life, and the commitment Nippon Life has to the ongoing success of our business in the Australian market.

“I’m delighted to welcome Koji Ichiba to MLC Life Insurance and I know the broader business looks forward to working with Ichiba-san as well.”

Nippon Life Insurance Group Director and Managing Executive Officer Minoru Kimura says MLC Life is an “integral part” of the Japanese insurer’s international growth strategy.

“We are delighted Ichiba-san will be able to bring his unique expertise and significant international experience to MLC Life Insurance at this important time, as part of this critical partnership,” he said.