Envest has appointed former Marsh executive Toni Ferrier as head of its New Zealand broking business as it pursues expansion in the market. 

Ms Ferrier brings more than 30 years’ experience spanning broking, underwriting, claims, risk advisory and governance. 

Most recently she was Marsh New Zealand CEO and President of Marsh Risk New Zealand and previously led AIG New Zealand. She is also an Insurance Council of New Zealand past president and was a commissioner with the Earthquake Commission for almost two years. 

Envest CEO Greg Mullins says Ms Ferrier is one of the most highly regarded leaders in the New Zealand market and her appointment to the newly created role represents a significant milestone in the group's long-term growth strategy. 

“Her extensive industry experience, strong leadership credentials and deep relationships across the sector make her an exceptional addition to our business,” he said. 

“We see significant opportunity to expand our broking presence in New Zealand through a combination of organic growth, acquisition and attracting outstanding broking talent. Toni's appointment is an important step in executing that vision.” 

Ms Ferrier, whose appointment as Envest Broking New Zealand CEO takes effect from February, says the company has built an impressive network of businesses and partnerships across Australia and New Zealand and has a clear growth strategy. 

“One of the aspects that attracted me to Envest is the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of its broking business in New Zealand,” she said today. 

“We are building something of scale with an entrepreneurial organisation, alongside great people, with global backing and strong existing foundations.” 

Envest’s plans involve continuing to build the PSC New Zealand branches and broking businesses led by William O’Brien, both organically and through transactions, and introducing Aviso Specialty to create a mid-market broking business with product and industry specialists. 

Mr Mullins says it’s also looking to partner with entrepreneurial broker leaders who want to preserve their legacy, accelerate growth by leveraging Envest’s international connections and scale, and provide long-term opportunities for their people. 

Envest’s broking business in New Zealand, PSC Insurance Brokers, currently employs 48 staff across offices in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Christchurch and places more than $NZ65 million ($52 million) in gross written premium.