The Financial Services Institute of Australasia (Finsia) has named Russell Thomas as its interim chief executive.
Thomas assumes the role of acting chief and board member following Martin Fahy's resignation.
Finsia president Malcolm McComas said Thomas was well placed to lead the institute through the recruitment transition.
Thomas has been a member of the Finsia executive team and director of policy and professional development for almost four years.
The search to appoint a new chief was well advanced, with the board retaining Heidrick & Struggles as part of an international search, Finsia said in a statement.
As well as recruiting a new chief, the first round of candidates for Finsia's Financial Services Professional credential for private banking will commence later this month.
The institute will also be launching a new student website in March and a number of policy initiatives, including an Asia benchmarking report.
Fahy announced his departure from the institute in January.
