9 September 2020 

Allianz Retire+ embarks on institutional partnership strategy; announces Head of Institutional Solutions appointment

Retirement investment specialist Allianz Retire+ has signalled its intention to become a key solutions provider in the institutional marketplace, following the appointment of Fintan Thornton as Head of Institutional Solutions.

In his newly created role, Mr Thornton will be responsible for developing Allianz Retire+ partnerships and solution design for the institutional segment of the Australian investment market.

Allianz Retire+ CEO, Matt Rady, said he believed the company's extensive global capabilities and expertise in investment innovation could play an important role in helping Superannuation Trustees at a time of significant industry transformation:

“We are entering a new era in the delivery of a more robust retirement income system. With the upcoming retirement income covenant, there is finally a sharper focus on the development of a more sustainable framework. It’s pleasing to see several progressive Trustees seeking innovative ways to meet the post-retirement investment challenge. 

“Fintan’s appointment underpins a growing interest in our capabilities, and his wealth of relevant experience means he is extremely well placed to deliver for our partners.”

Mr Rady also said that Mr Thornton would play a pivotal role in aiding institutional investors to leverage the unique capabilities of Allianz Retire+ to develop retirement income strategies that ultimately enhance Trustees’ existing capabilities:

“Fintan brings to Allianz Retire+ specialisation in longevity risk solutions and his technical expertise will be incredibly valuable to our partners in tailoring superior longevity solutions that meet the complex fiduciary challenges faced by Super Funds today.”

Mr Thornton's appointment reflects his extensive superannuation and actuarial experience, spanning over 20 years’ working across Australian and international financial services markets. He joins Allianz Retire+ from Colonial First State where he was Head of Superannuation; and previously, Head of Strategy and Implementation. He is also a Non-Executive Director on the board of CBHS Health Fund.

Mr Thornton’s previous executive roles include Head of Employee Superannuation at Commonwealth Bank of Australia; Director of Actuarial, Russell Investments; and Retirement Practice Actuarial Consultant, Willis Towers Watson, UK.