Former FPA policy and advocacy GM announces CALI move

The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI), which comprises 19 life insurers and reinsurers, has announced the appointment of former general manager of policy and advocacy at the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA), Benjamin Marshan, as its new director of policy and industry affairs. 

In a statement shared on LinkedIn, CALI said Mr Marshan “brings deep knowledge of the complex regulatory environment that our members operate in”. 

“Ben has extensive experience serving in member associations and played a critical role leading the financial advice industry’s fintech agenda and the development and implementation of the Financial Planning Association’s Code of Professional Practice, Guidance and Regulations and development of Professional and Ethical Standards for Financial Planners,” CALI said. 

In a separate announcement on his personal LinkedIn page, Mr Marshan acknowledged his new position, revealing that it was an opportunity he couldn’t refuse. 

“At the FPA members have shared a lot of frustrations with the cost and time of advice delivery and the profession — and outside SOAs/FDS/OFA which we have tried to provide novel, efficient, engaging, profit driving solutions for — the other area which has most concerned members is an inability to support clients with life insurance strategy and implementation,” Mr Marshan said.

“So when the opportunity arose to help more Australians get access to critical life insurance benefits — and work with Christine Cupitt again — it was an opportunity I couldn’t say no to,” he continued.

CALI also announced the appointment of Michael Johnston as the director of policy and advocacy.

“Michael has held senior roles in the banking sector and economic portfolios in the federal government. He has worked closely on a wide range of regulatory issues affecting the financial services sector and led the corporate affairs strategy for Westpac’s response to the Financial Services Royal Commission,” CALI said.  

“With deep networks across Australia’s political and financial services policy landscape, Michael is known for his clear judgement and ability to put the customer at the centre of policy making.”

Mr Marshan and Mr Johnston are set to join Christine Cupitt and Keely O’Brien in CALI’s executive team on 27 March.