Super fund CEO to join MLC Life

Current chief executive of ESSSuper Mark Puli will take on the role when he joins the life insurer in January 2022, replacing Sean Williamson.

Mr Puli will join MLC following some changes to its life insurance division that will see it become a separate stand-alone function, however the retail insurance team will continue with the division.

“Given our ambition to grow our presence in the group market, the Board and I believe the time is right for it to become a separate, standalone division, reporting directly to me,” MLC Life Insurance CEO Rodney Cook said.

“We believe this change will provide even stronger support for our existing and future group partners.

“I’m delighted to welcome Mark to MLC Life Insurance. He brings a wealth of experience and an exceptional depth of understanding about superannuation, group insurance, and how to provide the best experience for members.”

Mr Puli has over 30 years’ experience in financial services. As well as serving as CEO at ESSSuper since 2011 (after joining the fund as its CFO in 2009), he held senior roles at a number of companies including Aviva Australia, Merrill Lynch Investment Management and Mercer.

“I’m thrilled to be joining MLC Life Insurance and Rodney’s leadership team at this important time,” Mr Puli said.

“Life insurance inside superannuation is a fundamental vehicle to deliver protection to millions of Australians, and I’m excited for the opportunity to grow our presence in the market.”

Mr Cook and MLC also paid tribute to Mr Williamson for his “committed leadership” of the group insurance team.

“I wish Sean well as he moves into the next phase of his career,” he said.

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.