Guardian has appointed Gower Wisdom as chief operating officer (COO), effective 1 November.
He succeeds Duncan Mosely, who stepped down earlier this year.
Wisdom brings more than 20 years’ experience in life insurance and wealth management, spanning operational leadership, product development and actuarial expertise.
He joins from AUL Assurance, a specialist startup life insurer, where he served as CEO and formerly COO.
Earlier, he was product director at Skandia (part of Old Mutual Wealth, now Quilter), shaping the customer proposition and pricing strategy across UK and international markets.
He also led the development and launch of Skandia’s UK critical-illness proposition and protection range. Wisdom is a qualified actuary with an MBA and a diploma in regulated financial planning.
Guardian CEO Carlton Hood said: “Gower brings a winning combination of operational rigour, actuarial know-how and regulatory expertise, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to Guardian.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Gower before and know first-hand how talented and values-driven he is.
“As Guardian continues to grow and challenge the market, Gower will play a key role in ensuring we remain strong and forward-thinking.”
Wisdom added: “I’ve long admired Guardian’s bold, customer-centric approach to protection and its drive for better.
“The business’ consistent 5-star service and market-leading features, such as Payout Planner and the cover upgrade promise, show how innovation moves the market forward.
“I’m excited to scale a business already setting the standard for both innovation and experience.”
In addition, Guardian has promoted Hilary Banks to chief commercial officer, recognising her pivotal role in developing the firm’s distribution footprint and commercial strategy.
The appointments complete Guardian’s executive committee, which now comprises:
- Carlton Hood, chief executive officer
- Nischal Singh, chief financial officer
- Gower Wisdom, chief operating officer
- Hilary Banks, chief commercial officer
- Julie Speiser, group HR manager
- Ruth Starsmeare, group chief technology officer
Guardian said the strengthened leadership team marks another milestone in its mission to challenge the status quo and grow the protection market.
