UniMed announces new chief executive

Dermot Martin, who has steered UniMed’s growth from a fledgling health insurer into New Zealand’s fourth largest, is retiring after 30 years at the helm.

Wednesday, November 4th 2020, 1:02PM

He will be succeeded by Louise Zacest.

Zacest joins UniMed from Healthcare New Zealand, the country’s largest home and community service provider, where she has held senior executive positions, including acting Chief Executive.

She is currently General Manager, Strategy and Partnerships. Her previous health and insurance experience includes senior roles with Southern Cross, Tower Financial Service Group and Counties Manukau District Health Board.

UniMed chair Jane Huria paid tribute to Martin’s extraordinary contribution to the not-for-profit society over the past three decades.

“Dermot has led UniMed through a time of significant transformation, challenges, and change to make us one of the most trusted health insurers in New Zealand. Today we have more than 92,000 Kiwis entrusting their insurance to us and it’s increasing every year. That is a reflection of his foresight as he has carefully mapped a strategic growth path for UniMed.”

“Together with his business acumen, he has always kept the welfare of our members at the heart of everything we do – never more so than during Covid-19 when Dermot and his team worked tirelessly to help our members.”

Martin said it was the right time for a new chief executive to take UniMed forward.

“We have a fantastic team who truly are committed to looking after our members. They always remember that they work for our members. It’s been particularly rewarding to help support our members during times of ill health by at least taking away the financial worry.”

“I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed the many successful amalgamations and acquisitions over the years that have added to our family of members along with the associated financial implications to always ensure our society is financially well founded.”

Zacest starts in the role in January 2021.

“As a strong, member focused organisation, UniMed is uniquely placed to deliver personalised health insurance solutions to people and their families. I’m really looking forward to being part of the UniMed team.”

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