Sun Life names new VP of data and AI

Sun Life has appointed Lee Sarkin (pictured) as vice president, data and AI, Asia, effective 1 September. Based in Hong Kong, Sarkin will lead Sun Life Asia’s data and AI function and drive the rollout of priority AI initiatives across the region. 

The appointment underscores Sun Life’s ongoing commitment to scaling its regional data and AI capabilities to drive business growth, streamline operational efficiency, and elevate client and advisor experiences.

In the newly created role, Sarkin is tasked with accelerating Sun Life’s regional data and AI roadmap. His primary focus will be scaling practical use cases that refine decision-making and deliver faster, simpler, and more consistent interactions for clients and advisors. Additionally, he will oversee the data platforms and governance frameworks required to ensure safe, ethical, and consistent AI adoption across markets.

Sarkin brings more than 20 years of experience in data, analytics, AI and actuarial across life and health primary insurance and reinsurance. He joins Sun Life from Munich Re Life & Health, where he was regional chief analytics officer, responsible for AI and analytics in Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa.

DJ de Villiers, chief information and digital officer, Asia, said, “I’m thrilled to welcome Sarkin to Sun Life. He joins us at an exciting time as we continue to scale our data and AI capabilities across Asia. Sarkin brings a rare combination of technical expertise, business leadership and hands-on experience delivering AI solutions at scale." 

“Data and AI are critical to how we grow our business, strengthen decision-making and create better experiences for clients and advisors. Sarkin will play a key role in helping us accelerate this agenda and ensure we continue to innovate responsibly, always with the needs of our clients at the centre of what we do,” said de Villiers.  

Sarkin said, “AI is transforming the future of financial services which will allow us to reimagine how we serve clients, support advisors and empower our people. I'm excited to join Sun Life and build on its long heritage of serving clients across Asia and globally by harnessing these capabilities responsibly, combining cutting-edge AI with human judgement, empathy and trust to deliver more personalised experiences, better decisions and outcomes that help Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”

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