Cigna signals changes to its growing distribution team

Cigna’s latest round of distribution team appointments sees four new faces join the life insurer from across the country.

Friday, June 18th 2021, 8:32AM

by Matthew Martin

Cigna distribution general manager David Haak says the appointments reinforce the company’s commitment to ensuring New Zealanders have access to quality, independent financial advice.

“This expansion reflects Cigna’s growing presence in the market and will help us to continue providing advisers with a market-leading service offering, Haak says.

The new team is made up of Karen Smith, who joins Cigna from AIA/Sovereign as distribution operations manager.

Smith is a well-known and respected face in the industry with more than 22 years of experience and will head up Cigna’s behind-the-scenes support for advisers.

Danielle Penberthy joins the Auckland-based business partnership manager team from Insurance/Mortgage Link and previously Fidelity Life.

Danielle brings over 19 years of industry and sales experience to Cigna.

In the South Island, Ian Greig joins the business partnership team from Asteron and will be based in Christchurch.

Greig has 30 years of experience in financial services, adviser and sales manager roles.

Christine Laverty has been given the newly created role of national strategic alliances manager. Laverty will work closely with dealer and corporate groups as well as new business opportunities.