Heartland names incoming COO

Mike Grenfell has been named as Heartland Group’s next chief operating officer after current COO Laura Byrne signalled her intention to depart from the company at the end of 2021.

Subject to non-objection from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Mr Grenfell will commence as Heartland’s COO from 8 November.

Mr Grenfell is currently chief information officer with New Zealand Automobile Association (NZAA), where he has had overall responsibility for technology delivery, including IT operations, architecture, security and digital.

Previously, he held senior and executive positions with Cigna Life Insurance, including chief marketing officer, COO and chief information officer.

Heartland stated that he will be leading the group’s ongoing technology projects and continue the development and execution of its tech strategy.

Ms Byrne is expected to complete a handover with Mr Grenfell prior to her exit.

She has worked with Heartland for eight years.

The group also recently recruited two new board directors, including former APRA board member Geoff Summerhayes and Heartland Bank director Kate Mitchell. 

Heartland had flagged plans to grow its Australian business during its recent 2021 financial year results, with Mr Summerhayes’ commercial and regulatory experience expected to boost its local capability.

Both new directors commenced from Friday.

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