The appointment follows the announcement in July 2021 that Dante De Gori would step down as FPA CEO at the end of January 2022. Mr De Gori will work closely with Ms Abood to ensure a smooth CEO transition.

Ms Abood joins the FPA from HOPE Housing Funds Management, where she is currently chief operating officer. Prior to this, she spent nine years as the CEO of Profile Financial Services, a privately-owned and self-licensed financial planning firm.  She has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry.

FPA chair, Marisa Broome, said Ms Abood was appointed as FPA CEO following an extensive executive search process.

“Sarah impressed the board with her deep understanding of the financial planning profession, and the demands of running a financial planning practice, gained from her nine years as CEO of Profile Financial Services.  She is also very passionate about the financial planning profession and how it has transformed itself in recent times,” Ms Broome said.

“As the CEO of the FPA, Ms Abood will build upon the strong legacy of Dante De Gori to further develop services and support for members and the financial planners of the future.”

Ms Abood said she is joining the FPA at a crucial time in the profession’s development.

“There is growing recognition of the role that financial planners play in helping Australians meet their financial goals, and achieve financial security. In particular, financial planners have a crucial part to play in supporting the post-pandemic economic recovery.

“The FPA is the largest professional association for financial planners and has a strong track-record and heritage in supporting their needs. It is strongly positioned to continue supporting its members, and the financial planning profession as a whole, as it enters 2022. 

“I am impressed by the FPA’s vision for the future of financial planning as a vibrant and integral part of Australia’s prosperity, and look forward to playing my part in achieving this,” Ms Abood said.

Ms Broome paid tribute to the work of Mr De Gori who is leaving the FPA after twelve years, including six years as CEO.

“Dante’s contribution and advocacy during a period of great change and upheaval has been instrumental in helping develop recognition for financial planning as a profession.  He will leave a lasting positive legacy at the FPA, and we wish him all the best for his future plans,” Ms Broome said.

Sarah Abood has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry. She joins the FPA from HOPE Housing Funds Management, where she is currently chief operating officer. Prior to this, she spent nine years as the CEO of Profile Financial Services, a privately-owned and self-licensed financial planning firm. She has also worked in senior change & transformation and marketing roles for some of Australia’s leading financial institutions. Sarah holds a BA from the University of Sydney, an MBA from Macquarie University (MGSM) and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

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