The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) has appointed Gary Dransfield as its new independent chair.
He steps into the role on 23 February and replaces Dr Michael Easson, who has served two terms in the position and will be retiring on 22 February.
Dransfield brings extensive financial services experience to the organisation, reflected in his current non-executive director roles at the Australian Financial Complaints Authority and Hollard Insurance. He was previously Suncorp Group Australia insurance chief executive and chair of both the Insurance Council of Australia and Insurance Council of New Zealand.
In addition, he has held executive roles at IAG, AMP and Lend Lease.
“We are very pleased to have secured someone from outside the superannuation industry who will provide impartial leadership of the diverse board,” ASFA board nominations committee chair Chris Davies said of the appointment.
“Mr Dransfield’s experience in leading financial organisations and with industry associations, regulators and government will be invaluable as the board pursues its priorities.
“He is equipped with deep functional expertise in marketing, sales, distribution, corporate/government affairs, product manufacturing, operations and IT, which will position him well as the superannuation industry navigates substantial changes to the global economy, industry consolidation, community expectations, regulatory frameworks and the associated complexity.”
Davies also took the opportunity to thank the outgoing ASFA chair for his contribution to the organisation in the recent past.
“We extend our deepest thanks to Dr Michael Easson, who has chaired the ASFA board for the past six years,” he said.
“He has made a valuable contribution during a period of significant legislative and regulatory change for the industry, providing leadership and guidance in dealing with a range of complex issues, including ensuring the voices of consumers and the broader ASFA membership are heard.
“We wish him well for his future endeavours.”
