Long-serving AA boss to retire

AA Insurance chief executive Chris Curtin is set to retire at the end of 2022 after 28 years at the helm.

Curtin has led the company from a start-up to one of the nation’s largest insurers, employing more than 1,000 people and covering 500,000 kiwis.

“Chris has built this company from the ground up and his imprint on this business speaks for itself,” said AA Insurance chair, Doug McTaggart.

“Under his leadership, AA Insurance has consistently achieved outstanding results and exceeded expectations, and now dominates a vast array of independent industry awards and honours – including being voted Reader’s Digest most trusted general insurer for over a decade, consistently ranking inside the top ten in the Corporate Reputation Index and ranking among New Zealand’s best places to work.

“On behalf of the board of directors, I wish to thank Chris for his hard work and dedication over the years, and to acknowledge his unique ability to inspire others to go above and beyond. We have been extraordinarily lucky to have Chris lead our business for so long. We will miss him and wish him and his family all the very best for his retirement,” he said.

Curtin said it was the right time to hand over to the next generation of industry leaders.

“It’s been an honour to lead our talented leadership team and work alongside so many others who share my passion for creating outstanding customer experiences and building a team culture that genuinely empowers our people to thrive.

“After 28 years, I will undoubtedly miss the people and the company we built together, but I’m equally as excited to see our remarkable team drive our brand and business forward.

“It’s been a pleasure working closely with Doug and our Board, who have been inspirational in their support and guidance along the way,” Mr Curtin said.

The AA said it has begun the search for a replacement CEO.