Specialist insurance law firm Wotton + Kearney has appointed David Nathan as its first non-executive chairman with effect this month.

Mr Nathan was formerly CEO of medical defence insurer Avant Mutual Group from 2006 to 2013. Before that he led the Australian offices of global law firm Baker McKenzie for six years.

He presently holds a number of corporate positions including as a director of Momentum Life New Zealand and Chairman of the RSL National Board.

“[His] combination of insurance and law firm experience made him the perfect choice for Wotton + Kearney,” CEO David Kearney said. “We’re confident given his expertise in both law firm management and as a non-executive director that he will guide Wotton + Kearney in achieving its strategic goals with an informed, independent perspective.”