Media release
14 August 2025
Fidelity Life is celebrating the success of its Adviser edge programme, now in its second year, with advisers across New Zealand reporting transformational growth, strategic clarity, and renewed purpose in their businesses.
Designed to support the professional development of risk advisers, Fidelity Life’s Adviser edge continues to challenge and elevate adviser thinking. A standout moment this year was the inaugural Adviser edge Study tour – a high-impact experience for select Advice master participants. The tour took 19 advisers to Melbourne and Sydney for immersive learning on leadership, Artificial Intelligence (AI), business strategy, and digital transformation.
The tour was attended by Fidelity Life executives, CEO Campbell Mitchell and Chief Commercial Officer Bronwyn Kirwan, underscoring the company’s commitment to adviser development and the future of advice in New Zealand.
“Adviser edge is more than professional development: it’s a powerful driver of business transformation and personal growth,” says Campbell Mitchell.
“The study tour gave advisers the space to invest in themselves – immersing in fresh ideas, bold conversations, and shared learning. Exposure to global perspectives and international thought leaders added depth to the experience, helping advisers see advice through a wider lens and return with practical insights to strengthen their practices.”
“What started as a bold idea has become a transformative experience,” adds Bronwyn Kirwan.
“The calibre of thinking and ambition we saw on this tour was exceptional. We’re proud to see advisers backing themselves and their businesses, unlocking new opportunities and challenging their thinking in ways that will shape the future of advice.”
Michelle Doyle, Head of Solutions and lead director of Adviser edge says:
“The feedback has been phenomenal. This tour was designed to stretch perspectives and spark action. It’s exciting to see so many advisers already applying what they’ve learned to drive meaningful change in their business.”
Real world impact: advisers leading the change
The Adviser edge programme is designed to meet advisers where they are – whether they’re scaling up, refining their strategy, or seeking fresh inspiration. It’s a catalyst for delivering better customer outcomes and for many, the experience has been a turning point.
Craig Kura, CEO - Total Life:
“Adviser edge gave me the clarity to accelerate our national growth strategy. We’re now actively working with lenders and progressing acquisitions, with a clear goal to build a 100-strong nationwide team by the end of 2027.
“The connections and opportunities have been invaluable. They’ve helped us drive real progress with the right guidance at the right time. The Advice masters programme didn’t just validate our vision; it equipped us with the tools to make it real.”
Kylie Connor, Director - Mainland Insurance:
“The Adviser edge programme was a defining moment for our business. It pushed us to reassess our financial position, which unlocked new borrowing capacity. That gave us the ability to acquire client books and significantly improve both cashflow and profitability.
“But the most powerful shift was in mindset. With support from expert facilitators, I started to think more like a business owner. It’s helped me to consider the needs of the business more holistically and understand how my decisions can lead to stronger, more sustainable outcomes for our customers.
“We’ve strengthened our governance and introduced an independent adviser, bringing fresh perspective and greater accountability. This shift has enabled us to take a more strategic, deliberate approach to the business, with a clear long-term direction. The Advice master sessions have been instrumental in moving us from ‘muddling along’ to leading with purpose.”
Adviser edge study tour: a catalyst for growth and connection
The recent five-day study tour brought together a group of advisers for a shared learning experience that blended leadership and innovation with practical application. From behavioural economics, AI to digital transformation, the tour offered international tools and insights tailored to their business maturity.
Josh Cuttance, Financial Adviser - Share:
“The study tour was a game-changer in how we think about operational efficiency. It helped me pinpoint the key processes needed to run a high-performing advice practice and deliver a better client experience. The international insights and peer conversations reinforced that strong systems aren’t just helpful; they’re essential for sustainable growth.
“The study tour session on AI and the future of advice was especially powerful. I returned not only more informed, but more confident in the growing value of human connection and emotional intelligence in our industry. The experience gave me tangible actions, a sharper focus and the confidence to grow my business in a way that aligns with my personal goals and values.”
Johny Winstone, Managing Director - Centastone:
“The study tour broadened our thinking beyond the New Zealand market, connecting us with leading advisers and international reference points that are shaping our future strategy.
“We’ve implemented clearer meeting structures, defined team roles, and are adopting modern technology tools to boost performance and enhance the client experience. The programme has helped us move faster, think bigger, and build a more resilient, future-ready advice business.”
As advisers continue to apply what they’ve learned, Adviser edge is delivering measurable business outcomes. With 20 advisers having completed the 2024 Advice masters programme and 28 currently progressing through the 2025 cohort, all participants have reported increased business confidence.
"As we continue to evolve the Adviser edge programmes, the Advice masters component is proving to be a powerful gateway to deeper learning, strategic clarity, and peer-led growth,” says Bronwyn.
“The results speak for themselves. Advisers are making real changes to grow and improve their businesses, and we’re proud to support them on that journey.”
To learn more about Adviser edge, visit Adviser edge | Advisers or advisers can reach out to their Fidelity Life Business Manager.
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