ASX has announced that Helen Lofthouse will replace Dominic Stevens as its CEO and MD beginning in August.
Ms Lofthouse has more than 20 years of experience in cash equity and debt markets, listed and OTC derivatives, and clearing and settlement services, and was previously an MD at UBS in London and held various senior roles at JPMorgan.
She joined ASX in September 2015 and currently serves as group executive markets with responsibility for cash and derivatives trading, including equities, interest rates, commodities and energy products, as well as its benchmarks business and international sales.
The appointment follows a comprehensive and competitive executive search led by the ASX board with assistance from executive search firm Egon Zehnder.
“Given the high calibre of experienced candidates attracted to the position, we are delighted that the outstanding choice to lead ASX as its new CEO comes from within the organisation,” said ASX chairman Damian Roche.
“It is testament to Helen’s qualities and highlights the strength within ASX’s executive ranks. It also reflects the board’s confidence in the strategy and performance of the company in recent years. We look forward to the fresh ideas and enthusiasm Helen will bring to the role as our new CEO.”
Mr Roche said that the board believed Ms Lofthouse was the best candidate to lead ASX and had been impressed with her exceptional capability and demonstrated leadership.
“Helen has successfully managed changing priorities in dynamic environments, and done so while delivering critical market infrastructure,” he said.
“She has a strong understanding of our values and strategy, and a proven ability to lead large and diverse teams and deliver growth. Importantly, Helen is already known and highly regarded by our people, customers and regulators, and has a deep understanding of the regulatory environment in which ASX operates.”
Commenting on her appointment, Ms Lofthouse said she was honoured and humbled to have been chosen for the role.
“I am looking forward to helping shape ASX’s future as we continue our transformation and leverage our technology platform to deliver further value for customers, staff, shareholders and the investing public,” she said.
“I am also indebted to Dominic Stevens for ensuring ASX is in a strong financial, operational and technological position, and with considerable growth optionality when he leaves.”
Mr Stevens announced his plan to retire in February after nearly six years as CEO. He will remain in the role until the end of July and will continue to advise and assist with the transition until the end of September.
“I acknowledge Dominic’s major contribution in leading the company through a period of significant growth, challenge and transformation,” said Mr Roche.
“He has done a great deal to contemporise the organisation, improve the resilience and functionality of our operating platforms, position ASX to capitalise on new growth opportunities, and lift the experience for our customers. Under Dominic’s leadership, ASX has become a stronger, more performance-driven company, which consistently delivers solid financial results.”
