The Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) has announced the appointment of its new chief executive following the departure of Philip Kewin from the position in March.
Helen Morgan-Banda will take on the role from 2 August and steps into the position after having occupied similar roles in New Zealand, where she was chief executive of the Law Society for two-and-a-half years.
Morgan-Banda was also previously the chief executive of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners and has held corporate affairs positions with ANZ and AMP in New Zealand.
AFA national president Michael Nowak said Morgan-Banda’s extensive knowledge made her a strategic fit and will provide insight for advisers alongside the AFA’s financial service professionals.
“Over the course of her career, Helen has managed significant disruption, akin to that currently being experienced by financial advisers,” Nowak said.
“She has demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues being faced by our members and the broader industry and we believe she is the right person to lead us into the future.”
Following Kewin’s decision to step down from the leadership position after four years, AFA policy and professionalism general manager Phil Anderson has led the organisation.
Nowak noted Anderson will remain an integral part of the AFA after he performed two demanding roles as the body searched for Kewin’s replacement.
“Phil remains an integral part of the AFA’s senior leadership team and will continue to play a vital role consulting with regulators, government and other industry bodies on behalf of our members,” he said.
