The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has appointed former Suncorp Insurance CEO Gary Dransfield to its board.

Mr Dransfield began his three-year term at the start of this month.

AFCA announced his appointment in December, saying his general insurance experience including past roles as Insurance Council of Australia president and chairman will “benefit” the financial dispute ombudsman.

“Mr Dransfield will bring a wide range of skills from his distinguished executive career and his experience as a non-executive director,” ChairJohn Pollaers said.

“We particularly welcome his extensive experience in general insurance, which represents 24% of AFCA’s business.

“We will benefit both from his deep business experience and from his career-long focus on the customer.”

Mr Dransfield is currently Hollard Insurance non-executive Director and Chair of the panel advising the NSW Government on the design of decennial liability insurance for apartment buildings.