Profile
"West Oak’s success has come from always putting our clients’ best interests first and always finding ways to improve and add more value to them"
Andrew mcquiston,
west oak family office, wellington-altus private wealth
A former international hockey player, Kristy Redfern is truly passionate about health and wellbeing – and that’s a value she promotes every day as general counsel at AIA.
Redfern has over 20 years of financial services experience across Australia, New Zealand and other international markets, and she is known for her empathetic approach to leadership and her ability to connect with people and boards. She currently leads AIA Australia’s legal team, where she uses her skills and experience to create transformational change, champion doing the right thing, and drive exceptional results.
Redfern was a board member of the Financial Services Council (FSC) New Zealand, where she has spent the last five years helping build up the financial wellbeing of New Zealanders. She also launched the inaugural Diversity & Inclusion Committee at the FSC, where she served as co-chair.
She has now brought this purpose over to Australia, where she is looking to grow financial literacy and make a genuine difference.
“Growing the financial confidence and wellbeing of Australians is essential as we navigate through these interesting times,” Redfern says.
“From diversity to growing financial literacy in schools, there is so much that lawyers can deliver to make a real difference. I am passionate about ensuring more equitable financial outcomes for all Australians, and that starts with action.”
As general counsel, Redfern thrives in dealing with complex issues and creating high-performing teams. She takes an authentic leadership approach and executes her vision through clear and purpose-led communication.
“I have learnt over the years that I am at my best as a lawyer when I am able to be calm, objective and to an extent bring an independent mindset,” she explains. “The legal environment is always evolving, and so embracing change with a learning mindset and surrounding yourself with great people to enjoy the journey with is key.”
Redfern was named one of the Elite Women 2022 by Australasian Lawyer. To young aspiring lawyers she says, dream big, but don’t forget to prioritise what truly matters most.
“Law is an exciting and fast-paced career and has taken me to roles in London, the Middle East, New Zealand and Australia,” Redfern says. “Be courageous and find an organisation that matches your values and purpose, and you will thrive.”
Level 4, 509 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria
0403649955
kristy.redfern@aia.com
nz.linkedin.com/in/kristy-redfern-5a679415
aia.com.au
Kristy Redfern
Executive – General Counsel
AIA Australia
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Bio
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Milestones
2020–present
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
Deputy Principal at Australian Christian College - Southlands
Doctor of Education
2020–present
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2021
Ted Talk in collaboration with key media
Year 7 Community Leader and Leader for Learning Technologies and Platforms at Northern Beaches Christian School
Master of Business Administration, 2017–2019
2021
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2008–2009
2016–2022
2017–2022
2018–present
2022–present
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Milestones
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
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Ted Talk in collaboration with key media
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Ted Talk in collaboration with key media
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Ted Talk in collaboration with key media
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2016–2022
2017–2022
2018–present
2022–present
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Bio
Milestones
2022
2018–present
2017–2022
2016–2022
2008–2009
2022–present
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
General Counsel and Company Secretary at AIA Australia
2022–present
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2018–present
Human Resources Magazine | key media
Director at New Zealand Hockey
International-level hockey player representing New Zealand
NZ Lawyer Elite Woman 2021
2018–present
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2017–2022
Human Resources Magazine | key media
Director at Financial Services Council NZ
2017–2022
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2016–2022
Human Resources Magazine | key media
General Counsel and Company Secretary at AIA New Zealand
2016–2022
1997
2008–2009
human resources | key media
Simmons & Simmons Law Firm
2008–2009
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Milestones
2022–present
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
2022
Excellence awardee – Independent Mortgage Adviser of the Year category at the New Zealand Mortgage Awards
2022
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2022
2020–present
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
Deputy Principal at Australian Christian College - Southlands
Doctor of Education
2020–present
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2021
Launched his own business,
Ascend Financial Services
2022
2017-present
Insurance Business Magazine | Key Media
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2021
Launched his own business,
Ascend Financial Services
2022
Ted Talk in collaboration with key media
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2008–2009