In a statement, the Governance Institute said it had appointed Pauline Vamos to the role.
Ms Vamos was chief executive of ASFA from 2007 to 2016, and is a non-executive director of a number of financial services organisations including Mercer, the Banking and Finance Oath and Chief Executive Women.
The Governance Institute said Ms Vamos’ appointment was a key part of an independent review of the organisation “in response to a rapidly changing governance landscape”.
Chair of the committee conducting the independent review, John Mazengarb, said Ms Vamos’ appointment would see the Governance Institute continue to evolve along with changing stakeholder expectations.
“We are delighted to have Pauline as Chair of Governance Institute’s board,” Mr Mazengarb said.
“Pauline is a high-calibre, well-known leader and her appointment is a key part of the Governance Institute’s modernisation as we confirm ourselves as the leading national governance body, both now and into the future.”
He added that going forward the organisation would focus on innovation, modernisation and continuing to lead governance practice.
Commenting on her appointment, Ms Vamos said she was looking forward to working with the Governance Institute’s executive team on pressing issues in the modern governance space.
“As governance professionals we play a key role in assisting society navigate growing complexity and increasing challenges,” Ms Vamos said.
“Climate change risk, real time technological change, cyber risk, and the changing notion of consumers are just some of the issues that will require an evolution of our boards, our company secretaries and risk professionals.
“I am excited to be part of these discussions as chair of the board and president of the Governance Institute.”
