Equitable Life appoints new chief executive

Wiscarson will join the society on 2 September 2009, coming from Lloyds Banking Group where he has held very senior roles on the group executive committee - most recently group integration director.

He has served as the chief executive of life insurance companies over many years, which Vanni Treves, chairman of Equitable Life, said gave him extensive experience that was very relevant to the next phase of Equitable Life's development.

As previously announced, Treves is also stepping down and Ian Brimecome will replace him as chairman.

The new leadership team will commence their duties on 2 September.

Brimecome said: "Chris' appointment is great news for Equitable Life and its policyholders. His wealth of financial services experience, including outsourcing, will be an invaluable asset for the society.

"His joining will mark the establishment of the new team that will oversee the future of the society and I am very much looking forward to working with him to further serve the interests of our policyholders."

Wiscarson added: "I am delighted to have this opportunity to lead Equitable Life as its chief executive. With the society entering the next phase of its development, my priority will be to ensure that we keep policyholders' best interests at the heart of everything we do."