FOFA architect joins SMSF Association board

Former Labor federal politician and parliamentary secretary for the Gillard Labor government, Bernie Ripoll, has joined the SMSF Association board, effective immediately.

Mr Ripoll, who joined the association’s public policy committee in January 2018, will replace Ms Mulcare, who is stepping down after being a director since June 2015.

Association chair Dr Deborah Ralston said there would also be additional board appointments made soon following a call for expressions of interest from members.

Ms Ralston said it was gratifying that someone of Mr Ripoll’s calibre has agreed to join the board.

“His knowledge and insights from the broader advice and superannuation sectors have made a valuable contribution to our discussions,” she said.

“I am certain the skills, relationships and experiences he brings to the table will prove invaluable as superannuation and financial services policy continues to evolve.”

Mr Ripoll said he was delighted to join the board.

“I have always had a deep interest in superannuation and financial services, which is why I took the opportunity to serve on the public policy committee, and now look forward to having a bigger role in the association by being a board member,” he said.

Dr Ralston also thanked Ms Mulcare for her contribution as a director, especially her work around regulatory affairs, governance and risk management.

“Cath’s knowledge and experience in these critical areas gave the association a vital resource on which it could draw at the very time it was needed,” she said.

Ms Mulcare said it had been a privilege to serve on the association’s board.

Mr Ripoll has been a strong voice in the SMSF sector, advocating against one-stop shops and the risks they pose to SMSF retirement savings.

He also spoke about the importance of SMSF professionals competing on the technology front to ensure they are able to retain younger clients, once the greater intergenerational wealth transfer takes place.