The SMSF Association has named three new board members, who were chosen by an expression-of-interest process among members, to replace outgoing directors who have completed one or two terms of office.
The industry body announced Vincents superannuation advisory director Brett Griffiths will join the board from 1 November, while Matrix Norwest partner and general manager Lachlan Sue and Heffron Consulting managing director Meg Heffron will join the board on 1 January 2025.
The three new board members replace Dr Deborah Ralston, Sonas Wealth managing director Liam Shorte and BT head of financial literacy and advocacy Bryan Ashenden. Ralston and Shorte step down after six years on the board, while Ashenden is leaving after three years.
SMSF Association chair Scott Hay-Bartlem said: “Brett, Meg and Lachlan each bring unique perspectives from their many years in the industry, making them invaluable additions. We are delighted to have their industry knowledge and experience on the board as we strive to represent the industry and enhance the quality of SMSF advice.
“The association would like to thank the retiring directors for their invaluable contributions to the board. Their experience and dedication have greatly supported the growth and success of the association.
“In particular, I would like to thank and acknowledge Dr Deborah Ralston for her enormous contribution to the association, which spanned two stints as director and one as board chair. With over 25 years of board-level experience, including roles on the Future Fund Board of Guardians and the RBA Payments System Board, her leadership has been invaluable. We are grateful for her lasting impact on both the association and the financial services industry.”
The SMSF Association board is comprised of up to nine non-executive directors appointed to three-year terms, with directors appointed either through an expression-of-interest process or direct appointment where a director has a specific skill set required by the organisation.
Following the transition, the board will be made up of Scott Hay-Bartlem (chair), Michael Houlihan, Bernie Ripoll, Geoff Rooney, Christine Franks, Heffron, Griffiths and Sue.
