Michael Happell

Akambo, an integrated financial services business providing market leading investment solutions to the advisory market, has appointed Michael Happell non-executive Chairman and Kevin White a non-executive Director to the board of its holding company.

Akambo recently merged with the well-established wealth management firm First Financial to establish a powerful presence in the financial services space with 3,000 clients and $3 billion in funds under management (FUM).

Managing Director Anthony Kapetanovic says: “The advice industry is at the crossroads with pressure to attract advisers to the industry and provide end-to-end solutions to clients.

“In this competitive environment, the in-depth understanding and industry knowledge that Happell and White bring to the table will benefit the clients of Akambo and First Financial, making them invaluable assets in the merged company’s strategy to significantly expand over the next three to five years. Our goal is to grow significantly, both organically and via further mergers and acquisitions, over this timeframe.

“They will also play important roles in ensuring we lead the industry in best practice governance, reflecting one the key principles underpinning the merged entity – a 100% commitment to fulfilling our fiduciary obligations to our clients, knowing we are the custodians of their life savings.”

Happell and White have a combined 50 years’ experience in the financial services industry where both held leadership roles.

Happell recently retired from PricewaterhouseCoopers after 24 years, including four years as Chairman of the Australian firm, where he built a reputation as one of Australia’s top tax advisers. Current roles include President of the Melbourne Cricket Club, Chairman of Supra Capital and Director of two emerging IT companies, My Prosperity and Financial Crimes Solutions.

White brings to the board extensive knowledge of building and leading ASX listed companies, including Crowe Horwath Australasia and WHK Group, and, most recently, Freehills Patent Attorneys.

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