Welcome, Kevin Hughes - our new Chief Executive

Setting Unity up for success, for many years to come

Posted January 2023

We are very proud to announce the appointment of senior executive Kevin Hughes as our new Chief Executive.  Kevin joins us with over 30 years’ of experience in the financial services sector, most recently as Executive General Manager Programmes and Planning at IAG New Zealand.  

Originally from Hawke’s Bay, Kevin worked at the Māori Language commission during and post his university studies before travelling to London.  On return to New Zealand, he joined ANZ where he moved through roles in their finance, marketing, and operations areas with his final role at ANZ as General Manager Business Banking.

In 2011 Kevin moved into insurance for IAG New Zealand, initially as General Manager State Insurance Distribution. He was then appointed to the IAG executive leadership team in 2016.  After an 11-year career leading large teams and complex stakeholders in various executive roles at IAG, Kevin is excited for the opportunity to head an organisation like Unity due to our strong community focus, and also to return to his roots at the hub of Unity’s operations in Hastings.

Kevin’s expertise and extensive leadership experience in the financial services industry will be a great asset to the Unity business.  His customer-centric approach and knowledge of leading complex digital transformation will ensure member value and experience remains at the forefront of everything we do.

“I am excited to join an organisation with a strong purpose and community focus like Unity,” says Kevin, of his appointment.

“Unity has such an important role to play in the future wellbeing of our members and their communities. I am looking forward to the opportunity to enhance that role and to help set Unity up for success, for many years to come.”

Subject to regulatory approval, Kevin will join Unity from early April 2023, allowing for a comprehensive handover from Acting Chief Executive, Brian Hayr.