FPA announces new chair

The Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) has confirmed that deputy chair and board member David Sharpe will commence the role from 1 May, taking over from Marisa Broom who has served as chair since November 2018.

Ms Broome said the transition is the result of a “long-term succession plan”, with Mr Sharpe, who joined the FPA in 2003, being appointed deputy chair in February last year.

The move comes after Sarah Abood took over as FPA’s CEO in January from Dante De Gori.

“I know that I am handing over to a safe and experienced yet innovative pair of hands with David, as our association enters a new era with a new CEO and new chair,” Ms Broome said.

“I have often said that being the FPA Chair has been the greatest privilege of my professional life, and I know David feels the same way.

“He will build on the strong groundwork that has been laid for real change in our profession, and he brings substantial experience as a practicing certified financial planner professional to the role,” Ms Broome said.

On the new role, Mr Sharpe paid tribute to Ms Broome, saying he is aware that he has big shoes to fill.

“I will continue to represent the needs of our members and will seek to engage the membership to achieve practical change and respect for our profession,” Mr Sharpe said.

“There are a number of challenges still facing financial planners and I will work to be an advocate for our members and their clients.

“As a practitioner, I am acutely aware of the frustration caused by over-regulation of financial planning and the detrimental impact this has on planners and their clients. I am also conscious of the growing demand for financial advice, particularly among older Australians who are approaching retirement, and it is imperative that the compliance burden driving cost and accessibility are properly addressed by regulators and government.”

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.