Provider Aegon UK has hired John Wilkinson, previously head of protection and investments at Nationwide Building Society, as protection director.
Wilkinson, who joins the group in August, will be responsible for developing its protection proposition and extending relationships with distributors.
Prior to his role at Nationwide, Wilkinson held senior positions at Legal & General, Britannic and Guardian Royal Exchange Group.
Richard Dallas, Aegon UK marketing director, said: "I'm delighted that John has agreed to join us. We remain committed to building our UK business focusing on our chosen markets of workplace savings and at-retirement, and our protection business is a core part."
Wilkinson added: "There is a real commitment [at Aegon] to grow this part of the business and to deliver simple solutions that will enable customers to easily identify their protection needs and take action to address those needs."