Aon New Zealand’s new CEO Melissa Cantell has begun her tenure as its new CEO.   

The firm announced Ms Cantell as CEO the start of the year, with an expectation she would take up the position following a brief transition period with former CEO Geoff Blampied, who will now serve as Executive Chairman. 

Ms Cantell, who began as CEO on July 24, joins Aon following two years as CEO of Fidelity Life. The New Zealand-based life insurer announced last month that Campbell Mitchell will replace Ms Cantell. 

Prior to her position at Fidelity Life, Ms Cantell served as a senior executive for IAG’s New Zealand operations, including three years as COO.   

“As a leader, it is important across all levels of the organisation to create a workplace that focuses on making a real difference for the colleagues, clients and communities we serve,” Ms Cantell said.  

“Under Geoff’s stewardship, we made significant progress in helping our clients shape decisions for the better.”  

Aon Asia Pacific CEO Anne Corona described Ms Cantell as an “accomplished leader” who will help advance the company’s effort to address the “unmet needs” of their clients.