Bristol-based insurance group SunLife is to launch a new division offering pet insurance and home cover as it continues to refocus following a rebrand last year.
The firm, one of the UK’s biggest direct financial services companies, has appointed senior industry figure Simon Stanney as general insurance director to spearhead the move.
It will be the first time SunLife, best known for its over 50s insurance and life cover, has entered the general insurance market.
Mr Stanney, pictured, brings with him 23 years of industry experience having held senior insurance positions at HSBC, RAC, Ageas and most recently Castle Cover. 
He said the pet and home products will continue SunLife’s strategy of finding ways to make insurance products more accessible to everyday customers, and give them a more straightforward, ‘retail’ experience.
Since its rebrand in 2014, SunLife – owned by French giant AXA – has successfully launched a range of new propositions aimed at helping families get straightforward, affordable savings and protection products, including an ISA, life insurance and will-writing service.
Mr Stanney said: “I’m delighted to be joining such a progressive and customer-focused business, and I am confident that our new general insurance products will resonate strongly with both existing and new to brand customers.”
SunLife managing director Dean Lamble added: “SunLife’s transformation into a true retail financial services brand is well underway.
“The appointment of Simon, coming on the back of the appointment of other senior industry figures such as Emma Walker from MoneySupermarket and Mark Jones from LV=, is testament to our commitment to broaden our reach and appeal across customer segments and products lines.”
