Former MLC national manager insurance Russell Hannah has returned to the company after a two-year stint at BT, where he was NSW state manager.

Mr Hannah becomes GM Retail Advised Insurance Sales, a newly created position.

He has also previously worked at Aviva and ING during a 15-year career in the life industry.

Mr Hannah will be responsible for the retail advised insurance team, overseeing distribution and sales, key account management and specialist insurance functions, plus sales analytics and insights.

MLC GM Retail Advised Insurance Melissa Heyhoe says Mr Hannah is a key appointment as the business moves to become a standalone life insurance company.

“As we transition… it’s imperative we have end-to-end ownership and accountability for the way our business services and supports advisers,” she said.

“Mr Hannah’s appointment will ensure we are at the forefront of driving organisational and broader industry change.”