Sedgwick has made Simon Kay CEO of its Australian business under a new leadership line-up following the retirement last year of former chief Diego Ascani.

Mr Kay steps up after New Zealand CEO Phil van Zyl took over the Australian operation on an interim basis last November. At that time, Mr Kay was promoted to local COO – a position that now goes to Kimberley Daley.

“Simon is a dynamic and action-oriented leader with a deep understanding of our business and a passion for driving growth and operational excellence,” Sedgwick international CEO Paul White said.

Mr Kay’s previous roles with global claims administrator Sedgwick include a spell as acting COO for Australia in 2023 and more recently as director of executive services for the UK and international business.

“He has more than 30 years of technical and leadership experience across multiple countries in the loss adjusting industry, allowing him to manage large property major and complex loss teams, oversee sizable corporate appointments and lead key client relationships,” Sedgwick said today.

Ms Daley has been with Sedgwick 14 years, including as EGM of professional services since 2021. Before that she was head of forensic accounting services.

She “brings a rare combination of operational insight and financial acumen”, Mr White says. “Her long-standing experience with Sedgwick and deep understanding of complex claims and client needs will be instrumental as we continue to grow and evolve the business.”

Mr van Zyl will return to his NZ role after “providing steady guidance and engaged leadership through a period of transition”, Sedgwick says.

Mr White said: “We are sincerely grateful for his commitment, expertise and clarity.”