Inaugural ‘40 Under 40’ awards shortlist unveiled to recognise the next gen financial advisers
The Inside Network has announced the inaugural shortlist for its 40 Under 40 Awards, revealing 40 standout young professionals who represent the emerging leadership of Australia’s wealth management industry. The winners will be crowned across 10 categories at the INFIN Future Financial Leaders Forum on 26 November 2025 in Melbourne.
Will Hamilton, CEO and Founder of wealth management firm HWP said the awards arrive at a pivotal moment for the advice profession.
“There’s a real gap emerging between today’s leaders and the future of leadership. If we don’t create pathways for younger advisers to step up, the profession risks losing its momentum. Supporting events like INFIN helps keep that pipeline strong and keeps the profession moving forward,” he noted.
The awards span 10 specialist areas from financial advice, investment, research, responsible investing, technology, community engagement and client experience among them. Each category highlights the innovation, ambition and integrity reshaping the future of wealth management.
Finalists were selected based on both the volume of votes received and the strength of their nomination summaries, with judges assessing how well each candidate demonstrated alignment with the award criteria.
The advisory committee overseeing the process comprises of young leaders from financial advice, asset consulting, asset management and public relations sectors, ensuring a broad and contemporary perspective when evaluating nominees.
Ashley Ryburn, Account Director, Head of Community at The Inside Network, highlighted the rigorous and collaborative nature of the selection process.
“We were overwhelmed with the response to the nominations – over 400 entries received. In choosing the winners, the advisory committee is balancing the quantitative elements of the nominations with the qualitative and evaluating the competing merits of so many impressive stories. Not only are they investing considerable time in selecting the winners, but they will also play a key role in designing and delivering the interactive workshops on the day. It’s a true celebration of innovation, ingenuity and lifelong learning across wealth management.”
Several award advisory committee members emphasised the importance of community, collaboration and adaptability as the next generation steps forward.
Josh Lee, Director and Financial Adviser at Link Wealth, said “What I’m most excited about is connecting with others in a similar age bracket. The advice industry is going through a lot of change, we’ve seen many advisers leave the industry, but the future is bright. I’m super bullish on the industry. It’s great to see INFIN event fostering growth and helping mentor the next generation.”
Josh Rubera, Business Development Manager at Colonial First State, noted the value of shared learning. “At the INFIN Future Financial Leaders Forum we hope attendees get the best of both worlds, from insights from industry experts and the chance to hear how their peers are tackling the same challenges.”
Holly Brenchley, investment specialist at Escala, said the industry’s evolution presents both opportunities and demands for future leaders.
“Technology is reshaping how markets work, how advice is delivered and how we invest. The greatest challenge and opportunity for future financial leaders is embracing these changes and staying at the forefront,” she said.
