The board of the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), on Wednesday, announced the appointment of Leeanne Turner to the role of interim chief executive officer.
Ms Turner brings more than four decades of experience in the superannuation industry across an array of funds and entities.
Namely, she has been CEO of both AvSuper and MTAA Super, the latter of which was a role she held for almost a decade. Following MTAA Super’s merger with Tasplan, she became the inaugural CEO of Spirit Super, which she stepped down from in March 2022.
Ms Turner has also been a director on the board at ASFA, Fund Executives Association Ltd (FEAL), Industry Super Australia (ISA), as well as a past member of the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal Advisory Council.
Also on Wednesday, Gary Dransfield was reappointed chair after having served as interim CEO since May when the chief executive at the time, Martin Fahay, announced his intention to resign after seven years at the helm.
Commenting on the transition, Mr Dransfield said the board had commenced a formal recruitment process several months ago.
“Having stepped into the interim CEO role temporarily, it has become clear that we need someone in the role in a dedicated capacity,” he added.
“The superannuation industry is on the cusp of the largest generation in Australian history entering the retirement phase, a transitioning economy, increased scrutiny, changing member engagement, and increased complexity.
“The board is particularly keen to have someone with Leeanne’s deep industry experience and knowledge of the sector to assist ASFA at such an important time.”
“ASFA is the market leader in delivering superannuation specialist training for industry participants and every year delivers one of the largest pensions conferences in the world.
Confirming that its next conference is less than two months away, Mr Dransfield said the board is pleased to welcome an industry veteran of such standing to lead ASFA through this busy period.
“Leeanne’s unifying presence and ability to bring people together to collaborate on the numerous, complicated challenges facing our industry will bring tremendous energy and focus to the sector.”
