Veteran Synchron manager to retire

Gerry Porter’s retirement was announced yesterday at Synchron’s professional development day in Brisbane.

Mr Porter has been a Synchron adviser for 15 years and the group's Queensland state manager since January 2009, a statement from Synchron said.

Mr Porter is responsible for Queensland now being Synchron's second largest market by state, having increased its number of representatives from 20 to 115.

He was also awarded the AFA’s Michael Murphy Award in 2015, the statement said.

Former Zurich business development manager, Gee Vas, will fill the role vacated by Mr Porter.

“We are thrilled to have someone of Gee’s calibre and experience joining the Synchron family and look forward to seeing her continue the outstanding work done by Gerry Porter in Queensland,” said Synchron director Don Trapnell.

Ms Vas has a decade of experience in both investments and insurance, and has previously held roles with TAL and Aviva Australia, the statement said.

“I’ve worked closely with Synchron over the last six years and so I’m delighted to now be joining their amazing team,” Ms Vas said.

“I’m passionate about the financial services industry, especially risk insurance, and look forward to cultivating strong relationships with advisers and sales executives, while continuing the growth of Synchron in Queensland.”