Suncorp New Zealand announces two new directors

18 November 2022

Suncorp New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of Alison Barrass and Kate Jorgensen as independent directors of Suncorp’s New Zealand Boards (Vero New Zealand Insurance Limited, Vero Liability Insurance Limited and Asteron Life Limited).

Suncorp New Zealand Board Chair David Flacks says the additional governance and financial skill that Barrass and Jorgensen bring to the board is invaluable.

“Both of these independent directors have a strong customer focus which can be seen in their current and previous Directorships. I am really excited to have them join us.” 

Alison Barrass

Barrass brings a broad range of skills, including knowledge and expertise in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and in governance, leadership and marketing-leading innovation.

She primarily works with New Zealand based businesses that are investing significantly in digitisation and/or international growth. Having previously held CEO roles, Barrass brings with her a broad suite of operational and leadership skills.

Barrass is currently a director with Spark NZ, Rockit Apples and Zespri, and is Chair of Tom & Luke and Babich Wines.

She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Southampton and a Business Diploma in Marketing from the University of Auckland.

Kate Jorgensen.

Jorgensen has significant financial, audit and commercial experience and has held several senior leadership positions within the telecommunications, infrastructure and construction industries. She also has extensive governance experience with a focus on risk management and sustainability.

With extensive previous experience as an Audit and Risk Committee member, Jorgensen is highly valued for her ability to maintain excellent financial discipline while helping provide confidence to stakeholders.

She is currently a non-executive Director on Chorus and a Board Trustee on the Dingle Foundation.  Kate was CFO of Vodafone New Zealand before her current roles. Prior to that, Kate was CFO of KiwiRail, CFO of Fletcher Building's infrastructure division and a senior audit manager for KPMG. 

Jorgensen has a Masters in Technological Futures and a Bachelor of Business (major Accounting).  She is also a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.

For more about these new appointments or any of the Suncorp New Zealand Board members, details on their skills and backgrounds are available on the Suncorp New Zealand website.

Media enquiries: Kimberley Cameron +64 27 208 1268