The Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) has announced that its long-serving CEO, Richard Klipin, has accepted a senior role with ANZ Wealth and will be leaving the AFA in February 2013.
AFA National President, Michael Nowak said, “Richard has led the AFA on a remarkable journey of transformation over the past seven years. He has built the AFA into a strong adviser association which leads the market with its clear and authentic advocacy work, its ground-breaking GenXt platform which has nurtured the future leaders of advice into the industry, and its powerful, collaborative community that draws together all parts of the market place.”
Mr Nowak also said Mr Klipin has developed a very strong leadership team. “The AFA now has a strong National Board, robust committee structures and working groups, a strong media voice and partnership offer, engagement with all parts of government, regulators and stakeholders, as well as a growing presence in education,” Mr Nowak said.
Mr Klipin said it has been an honour to lead the AFA.
“The decision to leave has been a very difficult one personally, however after almost seven fantastic years as CEO, it is time to pass the baton,” he said. “I leave with a great sense of pride. The passion, professionalism and the culture of the AFA community is outstanding, and I know that the future is in great hands.”
AFA Treasurer and immediate-past President Brad Fox, who will step in as interim CEO, said Mr Klipin has been an outstanding leader for the AFA and the profession.
“The AFA is well respected by all stakeholders. We are involved in all issues impacting advice, advisers and consumers, and we are known for our clear, consistent and authentic voice in all the key debates,” he said. “Richard will be missed, but his legacy will endure.”
Mr Nowak said a recruitment search is currently underway but in the meantime, it is business as usual at the AFA.
“The interim CEO, Brad Fox has the experience and skill set to continue the AFA’s momentum in membership growth, education delivery and bringing value to corporate partnerships,” he said. “He has the leadership skills that will prove so vital to the profession as the Future of Financial Advice reforms are implemented.”
Mr Nowak said Mr Klipin therefore leaves the AFA in very capable hands. “With a new National Board in place and a strong management team, the AFA will continue to lead the profession forward into the future,” he said.