They are Tracey Scotchbrook, vice chair of the West Australian Local Community, and Michael Houlihan, chair of the Victorian Local Community for the past four years.
“Both Tracey and Michael met our selection criteria of having managed complex stakeholder relationships, experience at senior management and board levels, relevant tertiary qualifications and ongoing involvement with the SMSF sector,” Dr Deborah Ralston, SMSFA chair, said.
Dr Ralston said these two appointments are a direct response to the expressions of interest called for late last year.
“What’s important to note is that we attracted a very strong field of almost 30 candidates, demonstrating to me and my fellow directors the commitment and enthusiasm our members have, not just to the association but to the SMSF sector,” she said.
“These appointments, when coupled with the recent appointment of Bernie Ripoll, who has served on our Public Policy Committee since early 2017, allows us to build a strong and diverse board with a range of skills and experiences that will enable us to better meet the needs of members and tackle the policy challenges facing the sector.”
Mr Houlihan has more than 30 years’ experience working in financial services.
He has been a member of the Victorian Local Community for the past seven years, he is also the executive director of Strategic Wealth Services, non-executive director of Evergreen Consultants and chair of Eltham College.
“I have always been a passionate supporter of the SMSF sector, believing it gives people who opt to do so the opportunity to take direct responsibility for their superannuation,” Mr Houlihan said.
“It’s for this reason I chose to contribute to an organisation that’s rightly recognised as the peak body for the SMSF sector, and to have that contribution acknowledged in this way is extremely satisfying.”
Ms Scotchbrook is a chartered accountant that has had membership with Professional Standards and National Membership committees and was chair of the West Australia Local Community from 2012 to 2016.
She was also a board member and treasurer of Community Midwifery WA from 2009 to 2012.
“I have always found it tremendously fulfilling to be involved with the association, and especially the West Australian Local Community, so to have my commitment recognised in this way is enormously rewarding,” Ms Scotchbrook said.
