Southern Cross Health Society appoints Michael Saunders as Chief Financial Officer
Southern Cross Health Society (Society) is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Saunders to the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective 30 March 2026.
Michael brings to Society over 25 years of experience in finance and leadership across the insurance, healthcare, and banking sectors. Most recently, he served as Group CFO for Vitality UK, a fast-growing regulated insurance company, where he spent 12 years leading the finance function and was instrumental in the company’s transformation from a start-up to a major player with over 1.5 million members and an annual premium base exceeding £1 billion.
Michael’s career is marked by hands-on strategic and operational leadership, delivering strong financial outcomes that align with business goals, and driving significant growth and transformation. He has held board-level roles, managed large teams across multiple geographies, and developed robust relationships with regulators, investors, and commercial partners. His experience also includes private equity advisory work, international healthcare assignments, and leading major capital raises and refinancing initiatives.
Nick Astwick, CEO of Southern Cross Health Society, said “we are delighted to welcome Michael to the Society. His proven track record in delivering strong financial outcomes, driving transformation, and building high-performing teams will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our financial foundation and innovate for our members.”
“Michael’s experience at Vitality UK – where he was instrumental in helping the organisation evolve from a traditional health insurer to a proactive health partner – will be enormously valuable to Society as we move toward a future where we not only offer fast access to healthcare, but invest in and incentivise healthy behaviours that empower our members to live well for longer.”
“His deep experience across insurance, healthcare, and banking, combined with his ability to foster a culture of respect and shared purpose, makes Michael the ideal leader for this role. I am confident that with Michael’s leadership, we will continue to deliver outstanding value to our members and ensure the long-term sustainability of our Society.”
