FPA announces new head of education

In a statement, the FPA said Shaun Weston-Cole will work on the CFP Certification Program student experience, overseeing the introduction of new technology in the program’s delivery.

Mr Weston-Cole was previously content manager at the College of Law Australia. He also held a role as a solutions architect for CCH Australia.

FPA chief executive Dante De Gori said: “Shaun brings considerable experience to the FPA and we are excited to have him join the team.

“We know our program content is world class and now we want to focus on delivering the best possible student experience. In addition to this, we want to develop a solution for financial planners who need to undertake further study to meet the forthcoming education requirements.”

Mr Weston-Cole said: “Education has a key role to play in raising the standard of professional financial advice and ensuring that the lives of more Australians are enriched.

“Tremendous opportunities exist for financial planners to utilise education and professional development programs to broaden their professional and technical skills and differentiate themselves within the market.”

Mr Weston-Cole replaces Howard Cook, who has moved into the role of FPA head of academic relations. He is now responsible for managing the FPA’s relationships with academic institutions and ensuring that financial planning is an element of the Australian university curriculum.

“We’re passionate about supporting the development of the financial planning curriculum in Australia,” Mr De Gori said.

“We are also excited to build on our relationships with universities and ensure the foundations are in place to support budding financial planners on their career journey.”