New York Life Insurance Taps McDonnell as New General Counsel

New York Life Insurance has promoted Michael McDonnell as its new general counsel, the company announced Wednesday.

The appointment comes as the life insurance, wealth management, estate and retirement planning, and investment services company looks to prioritize sustainable investing.

McDonnell will oversee the company’s insurance and agency, investments, corporate practice, and tax teams in the general counsel office. He replaces former general counsel Natalie Lamarque, who in August joined Principal Financial Group, another investment and insurance firm.

“New York Life will continue to benefit from his sound judgment, expertise, and commitment to serving the company,” said Sheila Davidson, executive vice president and chief legal and administrative officer.

New York Life last month released of its first Environmental, Social, and Governance report. It highlights the work of the company and its boutique affiliates on issues such as climate action, human rights, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

McDonnell was previously the company’s senior vice president, deputy general counsel, and chief insurance counsel. He joined the company in 2013 as an associate general counsel and three years later moved up to vice president, associate general counsel.

Prior to New York Life, McDonnell was a Debevoise & Plimpton associate for a decade.