Ballantyne honoured for her work

Naomi Ballantyne, OMNZ

Ballantyne was described in the award's citation as being an "insurance entrepreneur", and one of the main drivers of the industry's product innovation over the past 34 years.

"[She] has created careers for hundreds of New Zealanders, business opportunities for thousands of small-medium enterprises, hundreds of millions of dollars in shareholder value, and financially supported many thousands of New Zealand clients when health issues interrupted their lives."

Over the years she has been involved in the establishment of the three companies, Sovereign, OnePath Life (originally called Club Life) and Partners Life. Besides developing the companies she has also been responsible for much of the product innovation in the life insurance industry.

Ballantyne told Good Returns she was surprised "that anyone would notice me." Also she said it was surreal to be honoured as she has spent much of her professional life "fighting the establishment".