Alexis George takes independent director role at Zurich

Former AMP chief executive Alexis George has joined Zurich Financial Services Australia as an independent non-executive director, according to media reports. She joined the board and the boards of Zurich’s life and general insurance entities on 10 August 2026.

George replaces John Mulcahy, who has stepped down after nearly a decade on the board. Mulcahy joined Zurich in 2017 and previously served as chief executive of Suncorp.

George brings financial services experience 

George led AMP Group for five years before stepping down in April 2026. She previously held senior roles at ANZ, including deputy chief executive, group executive of Wealth Australia and global managing director of insurance for ANZ Wealth.

She also held senior positions at ING Group across Asia Pacific, Australia and the Czech and Slovak Republics.

Zurich targets growth across ANZ

Zurich chair Geoff Summerhayes said George’s experience would support the insurer’s growth.

"I'm delighted to welcome Alexis to Zurich's board. She brings exceptional depth and breadth of experience to the role, and her insights will be invaluable as the organisation continues to grow and evolve across Australia and New Zealand," Summerhayes said.

Zurich chief executive Jusin Delaney said George had experience managing organisations through major change.

"Alexis has led large organisations through significant change. She is purpose-led with a clear focus on improving customer outcomes and strengthening internal culture," Delaney said.

"The business is growing rapidly and occupies a unique position as Australia's only major composite insurer, offering both life and general insurance products," George said.

"Zurich is making considerable investments in a number of core capabilities, including technology, partnerships and its people. I look forward to contributing to that journey."

Zurich sharpens focus on insurance

George’s appointment follows Zurich’s exit from investment management after the sale of Zurich Investment Management to Russell Investments.

The deal added about $2 billion to Russell Investments’ retail and wealth funds under management, taking the total to around $11 billion.

The transaction leaves Zurich focused on its life and general insurance operations across Australia and New Zealand.