Peak life insurance body hires CEO

The new peak body representing Australia's life insurance industry has appointed its inaugural chief executive.

Christine Cupitt will become head of the Council of Australian Life Insurers next January, joining from the Australian Banking Association, where she has worked for eight years.

CALI co-chairs, Damien Mu, chief executive and managing director, AIA Australia and Brett Clark, group chief executive and managing director, TAL, said the appointment of the inaugural CEO is another important step forward for the newly formed life insurance peak body.

The two insurance chiefs pointed to the huge amount of work ahead for the Council.

"Christine's considerable experience and her senior leadership role at the ABA through a time of significant change across the banking industry places her well to lead CALI's work in shaping the industry's direction and continuing to meet the evolving needs and expectations of our customers, partners, stakeholders, and the community," they said in a release.

"Christine's deep experience across banking, wealth, and insurance gives her a unique perspective and ability to ensure CALI is set up for success to advocate for Australians to have access to appropriate, affordable, and sustainable life insurance protection."

Incoming chief executive Christine Cupitt noted the importance of life insurance in Australia's community and economy.

"I am delighted to be leading CALI and supporting the industry to meet stakeholder expectations and deliver excellent outcomes for customers," she added.

"I look forward to working with consumer representatives, regulators, Government and other industry associations on issues critical to the life insurance industry."