The SMSF Association has appointed SMSF specialist adviser and Verante Financial Planning financial planner Liam Shorte to its board, replacing Andrew Gale.
Gale is stepping down after being a board member since 2012, including two years as chairman between February 2016 and 2018.
SMSF Association chairperson Professor Deborah Ralston said: “It was a carefully considered choice to appoint Liam. His practical knowledge of the sector derived over many years from dealing directly with clients will be of enormous value to the board, the association and the wider SMSF community.”
Ralston also highlighted Shorte’s blog, “The SMSF Coach”, which she said breaks down strategies and industry jargon into plain English for SMSF trustees.
Shorte has 27 years’ experience in financial services across banking, insurance, accounting and financial planning firms and started his own business in 2006. He worked in Ireland, the United Kingdom and the Middle East before moving to Australia in 2001.
Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I am hoping that the practical lessons I have learnt since establishing my own SMSF business will afford me the opportunity to bring a practitioner’s perspective and insights to the board.”
Ralston acknowledged Gale’s contribution to the association over the past six years, including his contribution to strategy for the body, oversight of a smooth chief executive transition and service through the public policy committee.
