National Mutual deputy general manager John Callam died suddenly and unexpectedly last week.
Callam was well known in the industry through his various positions over the past 12 years at National Mutual and National Mutual Health.
General manager Ross McEwan described him as a man who had "huge integrity and business skills." Callam was "very highly regarded" and "his loss has certainly rocked the business," McEwan said.
No new appointment will be made immediately. McEwan says he will take the time to regroup and review the firm's structure.
