MassMutual reorganizes tech under former chief digital officer

MassMutual has created a new organization for its digital initiatives.

The Enterprise Technology and Experience organization is headed by Gareth Ross, who has been with the company for several years, most recently serving as chief digital and customer experience officer. Ross has been with MassMutual for more than a decade and has been involved with several of the company's digital transformation initiatives, including its launch of a data science lab, deep relationships with regional colleges to staff it, and its increasing embrace of emerging tech.

“Gareth brings a distinct combination of strategic vision and proven ability to build and lead top teams to this expanded role,” said Roger Crandall, MassMutual chairman, president and CEO. “I am confident that Gareth and his strong leadership team will continue to develop superior technology and digital solutions to deliver a seamless experience to our policyowners, customers, distribution partners and employees.”

Two new hires are joining the company to support Ross as well:

• Arthur Riel is head of core technology and initiatives, a newly created position that will deliver strategic technology projects across the company, including internal and external information systems applications, platforms and infrastructure. MassMutual's several divisional technology heads will report to Riel. He last was CIO and chief enterprise architect for the World Bank.

• Jim Routh, new head of enterprise information risk management, will focus on cybersecurity, regulatory and compliance. He last was CISO for CVS Health via Aetna, and stewarded the combination of the organizations from a cyber risk perspective.

“Arthur’s entrepreneurial mindset and proven ability to lead major initiatives and Jim’s reputation as a thoughtful and innovative leader who builds exceptional and diverse teams will be invaluable as we work to establish and drive MassMutual’s vision for all of our technology and digital efforts," Ross stated.

MassMutual also broke ground this week on a Boston location that will serve as a hub for its digital and tech efforts, the company says. The 17-story building will house 1,000 employees once completed.