Michael Wright will succeed Peter Smith as Chair. Importantly, Smith will remain deeply involved as Founder, Evidentia Group Board Member, Generation Development Group (GDG) Director and Executive Director across GDG. He will continue to play an active role with Evidentia clients, strategic relationships, and in overseeing future strategic initiatives.

This transition reflects the Group’s long-term governance and succession planning and the Board’s commitment to continuity, stability, and sustained strategic execution as Evidentia enters its next phase of growth.

Introducing Louise Watson

Louise Watson is a highly regarded asset management executive with extensive experience leading growth and transformation across global and domestic markets. Most recently Country Head of Natixis Investment Managers Australia and New Zealand, she was responsible for driving operational transformation, expanding and diversifying institutional and adviser distribution capability, and accelerating both organic and inorganic growth.

Her career spans senior roles with leading global financial institutions including JPMorgan, Man Group, Credit Suisse, Aberdeen and Challenger. Across these organisations she played a pivotal role in developing multi-affiliate investment platforms, strengthening institutional and wealth distribution strategies and supporting advisers, wealth firms and institutional clients with differentiated investment solutions across public and private markets.

Louise is recognised for her strategic leadership, strong commercial acumen, and client-focused approach. She brings deep investment, distribution and advice industry expertise, with a strong ability to bridge sophisticated investment capability with adviser and client outcomes. Louise’s appointment comes at an important point in Evidentia Group’s growth journey, with her expertise expected to accelerate distribution opportunities and scale platform capability as the business enters its next phase.
Wright will work closely with Watson to ensure a seamless leadership transition and maintain strategic momentum across the Group.

Continued leadership and strategic stewardship

As Chair, Wright will remain closely involved in Evidentia Group’s strategic direction, corporate governance, and long-term growth agenda.

Under Smith’s and Wright’s leadership at Evidentia and Wright’s tenure as CEO of the Lonsec Group, the businesses have been reshaped and strengthened within the Australian financial services sector. Wright led the integration of Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions into a scaled, market-leading managed accounts platform, while enhancing governance and risk and delivering sustained, innovation-driven growth for advisers and clients, firmly positioning Evidentia Group as one of the most trusted and progressive organisations in the managed accounts industry.

Reflecting on his transition to Executive Chair, Michael Wright said: “Leading Lonsec Group and Evidentia Group has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I am incredibly proud of the transformation we have achieved and the strong, future-focused organisation that has been built.

“As the Group enters its next phase of growth, I am excited with the addition of Louise and her significant expertise and look forward to supporting Louise and the leadership team as Evidentia’s Chair. This transition allows me to continue contributing to Evidentia’s long-term strategy, governance and ambition while ensuring the business remains well positioned for the future.”

Further reflecting on the transition, Founder and Director of Evidentia Group – Peter Smith said, “It has been particularly rewarding to see Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions come together under Mike’s tenure as CEO to create a scaled and leading managed accounts business, which has continued to grow and strengthen its position in the market.”

Support from Generation Development Group

Grant Hackett, CEO of Generation Development Group, said: “Mike has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his time leading Evidentia Group and Lonsec Group. His strategic vision, focus on governance and risk, and commitment to delivering value for advisers and clients have been instrumental in shaping these businesses.

“We are delighted that Mike will continue to play a critical role as Chair of Evidentia Group, providing continuity and strategic leadership as the organisation enters its next phase.

“Importantly, we are pleased that Peter Smith continues to play an active and influential role across Evidentia and GDG as Founder and Director, maintaining strong continuity across clients, market relationships and strategic initiatives.

“We welcome Evidentia Group’s new CEO – Louise Watson, a highly experienced asset management leader with a proven track record in scaling investment businesses and driving strategic growth, who will commence in the role in August.

“GDG remains strongly committed to supporting and investing in Evidentia’s next phase of growth. The combination of ASX 200 backing and preserving the entrepreneurial culture of the business positions Evidentia strongly for continued expansion.”

A planned and positive transition

The Board emphasised that this transition is the outcome of a structured and considered succession process, designed to support Evidentia Group’s long-term growth strategy.

Evidentia Group remains focused on delivering exceptional outcomes for advisers, clients and shareholders, and this leadership evolution underscores the Group’s commitment to strong governance, continuity, momentum and market leadership.

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Michael Wright

Managed Account Leader – Evidentia Group (a wholly owned subsidiary of Generation Development Group (ASX:GDG)) has entered into a binding agreement to acquire Encore Advisory Group (Encore), further deepening its business consulting capability as part of its holistic offering to clients.

Encore is a highly respected practice management advisory firm with over 20 years of experience supporting financial planning, accounting, and mortgage broking businesses across Australia, including existing Evidentia Group clients. Encore’s management team of Mark Zaglas and Brendan Johnson will become part of Evidentia Group, with Brendan Johnson heading up a new Business Consulting division, reporting to Evidentia Group’s CEO, designed to deliver even greater value to our clients.

Mark Zaglas will continue to lead Encore. The Encore brand and its market-leading intellectual property will continue to be supported and enhanced, ensuring continuity for clients and enabling further innovation built on the firm’s proven frameworks and consulting expertise.

Michael Wright, CEO of Evidentia Group, said “We regard Encore as the leading practice management and advisory business in the market, and bringing Encore and Evidentia Group together will deliver significant value to our current and future clients. Many in our Group know and have worked with the Encore team previously. The alignment of values was a key attraction in working together again and creating a new Business Consulting division enables us to continue to invest in capabilities that add specialist value to our clients.

“Our consulting services are considered one of our key competitive strengths, making us the go-to partner for Advisers and empowering firms to perform and grow. This acquisition will allow us to deepen and broaden our current consulting offering and to add new services to all Evidentia Group client segments.”

Mark Zaglas, Encore Advisory Group, added “Encore exists to help owners get a better return on their business and life. We love working with business owners to build great advice businesses. Joining Evidentia Group enables us to help more people, grow more businesses, and make an even greater impact for many more years to come. All while working with a team who we respect highly, having worked with many of them over the last 20 years.”

Completion date for the acquisition took place on Friday the 7th of November 2025.

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Evidentia Group was formed through the merger of Evidentia, Lonsec Investment Solutions and Implemented Portfolios, following Generation Development Group’s acquisition of the Lonsec Group in August 2024 and Evidentia in February 2025. The strategic realignment of the businesses under Group reflects a clear vision for the future of managed accounts in Australia.

In February 2025, Michael Wright, previously CEO of Lonsec Group, was appointed CEO of Evidentia Group. The broader executive team was announced in July 2025, with Komadina’s appointment now rounding out a leadership group built for scale, innovation, and execution.

Jason Komadina joins Evidentia with over 27 years of experience spanning all areas of wealth management. Most recently serving as General Manager, Distribution and Investment Services at MLC Asset Management, Komadina also boasts previous leadership roles at MLC/NAB Wealth and Perpetual, bringing a proven track record of driving revenue growth and building high-performing teams to this new role.

CEO of Evidentia Group – Michael Wright, welcomed the appointment, saying “We are thrilled to welcome Jason to Evidentia Group. His deep operational and risk expertise, combined with his commercial acumen, will be instrumental as we scale a high-integrity, high-performance investment solutions business. This appointment completes a world-class executive team and reflects our commitment to robust foundations as we pursue an ambitious growth agenda.”

In the role of Chief Risk and Operating Officer, Komadina will oversee the firm’s operational infrastructure, risk management and regulatory compliance, ensuring the business scales with resilience and precision during its next iteration.

Commenting on the opportunity Jason Komadina said, “It’s a privilege to join Evidentia Group during such an exciting phase for both the business and the broader industry. Continuing to build on its strong, scalable operational and risk platform will be essential for our growth trajectory and I’m excited to contribute to a firm and a team that places excellence, integrity, and agility at the core of its mission.”

With its full executive team now in place, Evidentia Group is poised for continued expansion — underpinned by strategic clarity, executional strength, and a commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for advisers and investors alike.

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Rob Coombe

Generation Development Group (ASX: GDG) has entered into a binding agreement to acquire 100% of Evidentia Group (Evidentia), significantly strengthening its position in the rapidly growing managed accounts market, which is currently valued at over $200 billion^[1]. The managed accounts sector is expected to grow at an impressive 15% per annum from 2024 to 2030.^[2]

Founded in 2018, Evidentia is Australia’s leading provider of tailored managed account and investment management solutions with $12.7 billion in funds under management (FUM), presenting an exceptional growth opportunity for Generation Development Group.

Generation Development Group’s acquisition of Evidentia and subsequent merger with Lonsec Investment Solutions will bring together two of the leading and fastest growing managed account providers as the undisputed leader in the market, with a combined total of over $25 billion FUM. By merging their collective strengths, Generation Development Group will provide leading end-to-end investment management and managed account solutions for licensees, financial advisers, and their clients. The newly formed business will be branded as Evidentia Group.

Rob Coombe, Executive Chairman of Generation Development Group, said: “I’m incredibly excited to be welcoming the talented team at Evidentia to the Group. We look forward to continuing to invest in the combined business to drive growth in one of the most dynamic areas in the wealth management industry in Australia.”

Over the past decade in Australia, the demand for separately managed accounts (SMAs) and managed discretionary accounts (MDAs) has grown rapidly, driven by structural changes in wealth management and increasingly sophisticated investor needs. This growth is reflected in a 27% p.a. increase in the size of the managed accounts market, from $80 billion in 2020 to $206 billion in 2024^[3]. This demand is being driven by licensees and financial advisers focused on delivering better client outcomes and enhancing the overall client experience, while also improving operational efficiency and managing business risks.

Grant Hackett, Group Chief Executive Officer of Generation Development Group, said: “This acquisition is a highly strategic and attractive opportunity that is perfectly aligned to Generation Development Group’s broader growth strategy, following the acquisition of Lonsec Group. The Group expects the managed accounts market to grow to $474 billion by 2030^[4]. Both Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions have been among the fastest-growing businesses in the industry, and together, they will create a clear and undisputed market leader in the rapidly growing managed accounts sector.”

Managed accounts are considered the next evolution in Australian wealth management, similar to the rise of investment platforms over the past 25 years. They simplify administrative burdens, allow for customisation of portfolios, and enhance communication and scalability. These benefits deliver a more personalised investment experience, improved after-tax performance and investment outcomes.

Re-shaped businesses and executive teams

The acquisition of Evidentia has provided Generation Development Group the timely opportunity to reshape and strategically align its businesses to deliver growth. This will ensure it continues to deliver exceptional performance and enhance its customer propositions across each of its products and brands. Moving forward, Generation Development Group will operate three distinct businesses: Generation Life, Lonsec Research and Ratings, and Evidentia Group, which will be formed through the merger of the Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions businesses.

Peter Smith and Michael Wright will lead the newly formed Evidentia Group. Peter Smith, co-founder, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Evidentia, will assume the role of Executive Chairman at Evidentia Group and join the Board of Generation Development Group. Michael Wright, who has served as Group Chief Executive Officer of the Lonsec Group, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer at Evidentia Group.

Peter Smith, Executive Chairman of Evidentia, said: “The combination of Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions will continue to build upon the expanded team of over 30 investment management professionals, adding more experienced portfolio managers with strong financial advice expertise, and specialist resources including strategy-based portfolio design and business support. Working groups have been established to evaluate client-focused benefits due to the scale of the combined business, ensuring all benefits created are realised and reinvested back into the business, creating a stronger value proposition for our financial advisers and clients.”

Lonsec Research and Ratings will operate as a stand-alone business, with the Lonsec brands – SuperRatings and iRate aligning under it, bringing all the collective research strengths and areas of key excellence into one business unit. Lorraine Robinson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Lonsec Research and Ratings, previously serving as Executive Director of Lonsec Research, which has grown to become one of Australia’s largest and most respected providers of investment research for the financial services sector, evaluating and rating over 1,800 managed investments, listed securities, and superannuation funds. Generation Development Group will further build upon this momentum and is dedicated to investing in the growth and continued success of the research business.

Michael Wright, Chief Executive Officer of Evidentia, said: “Bringing together Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions is an exciting next step in our rapid growth journey for both our managed account and research businesses, as well as the broader Generation Development Group. It also provides a logical and timely opportunity to merge Evidentia with Lonsec Investment Solutions while establishing Lonsec Research and Ratings as a stand-alone business, enabling each brand to focus on their core strengths and value propositions and preparing each business unit for their next evolution of growth.”

Amanda Smerdon has been appointed to work alongside Grant Hackett, Group Chief Executive Officer at Generation Development Group, to help lead the Group’s transformation. As part of her role, she will work alongside key executives to oversee the separation of the newly formed Evidentia Group and Lonsec Research and Ratings businesses, to transition shared services in a phased approach. This will ensure each business remains independent and is structured to maximise performance and superior market-leading client outcomes.

This transaction and the strategic alignment of Generation Development Group’s businesses will continue to deliver best-in-class investment solutions and services from Generation Life, Lonsec Research and Ratings, and Evidentia Group, further strengthening our growth strategy. The Group remains committed to adding value and upholding the high standards of service that clients expect as market leaders across each of its products and brands.

The transaction is expected to complete in mid February 2025 following completion of an associated capital raise.

———-
Notes:
[1] IMAP (Jun-20-24), NMG Consulting (historical SMA type splits and all forecasts including the treatment of MDA as including MDAs, IMAs and other discretionary with no roll-forward or adjustment for MDA managers that did not provide data to IMAP in Jun-24
[2] Ibid
[3] Ibid
[4] Ibid

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Edwina Maloney

AMP Advice has engaged BlackRock Australia and Lonsec to introduce a new category of tailored managed portfolio solutions, making it accessible to more advice practices – a first of its kind in the Australian market.

Advisers will have access to portfolio performance tracking and dedicated content support allowing them to monitor their holdings, performance, and access trade notices and market commentaries that can be white-labelled for their client base^[1].

The portfolios use BlackRock’s multi-asset investment expertise and global custom managed portfolio technology, together with Lonsec’s investment manager research and manager selection capabilities to deliver portfolio customisation at scale to advice practices.

The solution is underpinned by BlackRock’s global managed portfolio customisation technology, which is only currently available in the US.  AMP Advice is able to create a suite of managed portfolios that make it easy and cost-efficient for AMP Advice practices to create tailored portfolios.

A new era in managed portfolios

North has seen a 50% increase in advisers using MyNorth Managed Portfolios over the last two years^[2]. And according to a report by independent financial services research firm Investment Trends, managed account solutions are growing in popularity in Australia with 56% of advisers surveyed last year saying they had used them for their client investments, up from 16% in 2012.^[3]

However, some advice practices have been unable to adopt managed accounts, where off-the-shelf solutions may not be suitable due to manager incumbency or preferences within the existing portfolios, and the lack of scale required to access fully tailored managed portfolios.

Thanks to this new innovation, AMP Advice is helping both practices within its network, as well as the increasing number of advisers who operate under their own AFSL to take full advantage of a pioneering managed portfolio solution – one that offers customisation to suit a practice’s individual requirements and investment philosophy.

Exclusive access through North and AMP

Advice practices, both through the AMP Advice network and other eligible practices, can access the new offering directly and exclusively through AMP’s North platform.

It will also be made available to self-licensed practices through Jigsaw Advice Solutions, AMP Advice’s dedicated service for independent financial advisers and self-licensees.^[4]

Currently, North has the fastest growing managed portfolio offering in the market – approaching $15 billion in funds under management, up from $2 billion in 2021.  It was recently awarded the Most Improved Platform and Best Retirement Solution by Investment Trends^[5], reflecting how North’s innovative retirement offer and adviser-driven continual improvement program are creating better outcomes for advisers and their clients.

The offering further builds on North’s existing stable of more than 380 portfolios with leading asset managers, covering numerous asset classes and investment strategies

Matt Lawler, AMP Group Executive, Advice said: “We’re excited to be launching a unique entry point into managed accounts for advice practices large and small that will for the first time bridge the gap between off-the-shelf and fully tailored private label managed account solutions.”

“Through this innovative new offer, AMP-aligned practices as well as smaller eligible practices through Jigsaw will be able to create tailored, high-quality investment portfolios for their clients which are governed, managed and administered by world class asset managers utilising world class tech. We recognise the value managed portfolios are providing advisers and their clients, but that many smaller advice practices don’t have the required scale to benefit from them. That’s why we’ve partnered with BlackRock and Lonsec to pave the way forward with an industry-leading solution that addresses many of the traditional barriers to adoption – including personalisation, incumbency and scale.”

Edwina Maloney, AMP Group Executive, Platforms said: “At North, we’re focused on helping practices deliver great advice to their clients more efficiently. At the heart of this is our commitment to expand and strengthen our managed portfolio offers, including the ability for IFAs and larger advice practices to tailor portfolios for their clients.”

“That’s why we’re thrilled to be the first platform in Australia to offer these new portfolios, allowing more advice practices to grow their businesses, improve end client outcomes, and efficiently service more clients.”

“Our managed portfolios continue to be the fastest growing in market thanks to the support from our advisers, asset consultants and fund managers we work with. We have one of the most flexible offers available and we’re continuing to build our unique badged portfolio solution, adding a greater degree of flexibility to help a broader range of practices.”

Katie Petering, Head of Multi-Asset Investment Strategy, BlackRock Australasia said: “As pioneers of managed portfolios in the Australian market, we are excited to work with AMP and Lonsec to build a new model portfolio solution that will enhance how AMP Advice and North serves advisers. By drawing on the breadth of our global platform, Australia will be the first market outside of the US to benefit from BlackRock’s global model portfolio customisation technology.”

“This reinforces our commitment to continuously look for ways to introduce innovation in a sophisticated market like Australia, with the primary goal of democratising access to model portfolios for a broader base of advice practices.”

Michael Wright, Lonsec Group Chief Executive Officer said: “We are thrilled to work with AMP and BlackRock to bring the next generation of managed accounts to market. This new managed portfolio solution will empower licensees like AMP Advice to create a suite of tailored portfolios that can allow certain customisations within the scheme for aligned practices – a first-of-its-kind breakthrough in the Australian wealth market. We expect this new managed portfolio solution will enable more advice practices to be able to reap the benefits of managed accounts for their businesses and clients.”

——–

Notes:
[1] Available through BlackRock’s Model Evaluator Portal
[2] Source: North data
[3] Source: January 2023 Managed Accounts Report by Investment Trends
[4] Included as part of a practice’s Jigsaw licencing package, at no additional cost
[5] Source: 2023 Platform Competitive Analysis and Benchmarking Report by Investment Trends

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iRate® is Lonsec’s award-winning investment research portal, providing financial professionals with access to their range of financial product research, ratings and analytical tools. iRate® is powered by one of Australia’s largest investment research and consulting teams and helps to deliver investment research needs in the one portal. In addition to providing managed fund and super fund research, iRate® also offers portfolio construction and comparison tools that can help advisers streamline their processes and meet their best interest duty and compliance obligations.

Lonsec CEO Michael Wright says, ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Godfrey Pembroke during such an exciting time of business transformation for the group. In an ever changing  compliance-heavy advice landscape, it is more important than ever for licensees to provide efficient and reliable research tools to their advisers.

‘Qualitative research is at the heart of what we do at Lonsec and we have built iRate® to support the research needs of all Australian advisers. We are delighted to continue as the research and investment consulting partner for Godfrey Pembroke and by doing so, helping their advisers to have more informed and insightful conversations with their clients.’

In preparation for the exit from Insignia, Godfrey Pembroke surveyed the investment research market and Lonsec was the standout choice. Mark Fisher, CEO of Godfrey Pembroke comments ‘The Godfrey Pembroke model is largely an outsourced vendor relationship model so choosing the right vendors is key. We chose to continue our long standing relationship with Lonsec due to the depth and breadth of their research as well as the professionalism of the researchers and  analysts.’

‘During the transition out of Insignia, the support the Lonsec team provided was top notch and we are delighted to continue this relationship.’

This partnership also includes the appointment of a member of the Lonsec Investment Consulting team, to the Godfrey Pembroke Investment Committee.

In addition to iRate®, Lonsec also supports the evolving needs of licensees and advisers through its investment consulting, tailored portfolios, managed accounts and its dedicated transition consultants who assist practices across the country in transforming their businesses.

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Marc’s career within the financial services industry spans over 23 years, leading sales teams for a number of the most prominent organisations in the sector such as IOOF and HUB24. His experience spans administration, product, advice and technology and he has managed significant client relationships for over 15 years. Marc has most recently managed key client relationships at global Investment manager, Franklin Templeton.

Lonsec CEO, Michael Wright, is delighted about the new hire, saying “Marc brings to our Sales and Service division considerable experience and expertise leading and building teams, as well as positioning them for exponential growth. He also brings substantial insight on the structure and drivers within our industry today.”

“Since the acquisition of Implemented Portfolios, our distribution team and our managed account offering have both expanded, and we are excited about Marc joining the business to help take them to the next level.”

Marc echoed these sentiments, saying, “I am thrilled about the prospect of joining Lonsec and being a part of a company with a strong reputation and exciting growth prospects. I see this as an opportunity to work alongside some exceptional people, many of whom I have had the pleasure of engaging with as business partners in previous roles.

“Considering the current landscape, it’s no surprise that we are seeing Advisers increasingly seek greater efficiency in order to scale and grow their firms, and I am delighted to be joining a company that can provide the tools to help them achieve this.”

“Throughout my career, I have always been passionate about doing interesting things and collaborating with talented individuals, and Lonsec presents an excellent opportunity to continue this trend and, contribute to a thriving company.”

Marc will commence the position of Executive Director Adviser Sales and Service at Lonsec in May 2023.

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Lukasz will be with the business until mid-June and is working closely with the team to ensure a smooth transition.

In the interim Michael Wright, Lonsec CEO and Managing Director Implemented Portfolios will assume Executive Director responsibilities for Lonsec Investment Solutions.

During this period Lonsec plans to go to market to appoint an Executive Director, Lonsec Investment Solutions and CIO.

Michael has an extensive knowledge of the Lonsec business and investment markets and is extremely well-placed lead the Lonsec Investment Solutions business.

Lonsec’s trusted and experienced team will continue to manage the portfolios.

Lonsec’s managed account portfolio and consulting services continue to be managed by experienced and long-standing members of the Lonsec team who will report to Michael, including:

• Deanne Baker, who has been appointed interim Chief Investment Officer (CIO). Deanne will continue to be the Portfolio Manager Multi-Asset Portfolios, managing the multi-asset, retirement and sustainable portfolios. Deanne has been with Lonsec for 15 years;
• Danial Moradi, Portfolio Manager Listed Portfolios, manages the listed diversified and Australian equities managed account portfolios and has also been with Lonsec for 15 years;
• Veronica Klaus, Head of Investment Consulting who has been with Lonsec for 12 years and leads our investment consulting services including the management of Lonsec’s tailored managed account portfolios; and
• Chris Robertson, Portfolio Manager ESG Aware for Implemented Portfolios (IPL) who has transitioned across with the acquisition of IPL.  Chris has over 30 years’ experience across leading Asset Managers.

They will continue to be supported by the Lonsec Investment Solutions team as well the broader Lonsec business.

Since the inception of Lonsec Investment Solutions, portfolios have been overseen by its Investment Committees. The Committees include its Asset Allocation, Manager Selection, Direct Equities and Tailored Portfolio committees which are all comprised of senior members of the Lonsec Investment Solution and Lonsec Research teams, as well as independent investment experts.

Deanne will chair the Lonsec Investment Solutions Asset Allocation Investment Committee as well join the IPL Asset Allocation Investment Committee as a member.

The IPL portfolios will continue to be overseen by IPL’s Asset Allocation Investment Committee chaired independently by Paul Dortkamp. Tim Farrelly, from Farrelly’s Investment Strategy, also continues to be a member of the IPL AAIC, which he and Paul have served on continuously since the inception of IPL in 2010. Lonsec is also expanding this committee with the additions of Deanne Baker (as mentioned above), Chris Robertson and Nick Field who has recently been promoted to the role of Portfolio Manager, IPL Portfolios. Nick has extensive investment research and portfolio management experience.

Finally, we have bolstered our internal portfolio governance framework with the establishment of a group Product Investment Oversight Committee (PIOC).

The PIOC is a sub board committee to the Lonsec Board and is responsible for ensuring that the IPL and Lonsec portfolios have the necessary personnel, processes and risk management frameworks in place.

The investment governance role that the PIOC discharges is important to Lonsec and our clients. The PIOC ensures that all the portfolios within the Lonsec Group remain managed in accordance with their stated mandates, objectives and have the right resources and capabilities to execute on their investment strategies.

Dr Steve Garth is the independent chair of the PIOC and he has extensive experience in asset management and investment governance.

Lukasz has made a significant contribution to the company having led Lonsec’s Investment Consulting services and establishing and building the Lonsec Investment Solutions business.

Mike Wright says, “Lukasz has made an outstanding contribution to Lonsec and the industry, establishing our strong investment consulting and managed account capabilities.  As Group CIO, Lukasz has overseen the various investment committees used to make medium-term investment decisions based on a clearly defined, common sense research-based investment philosophy.”

“We wish Lukasz all the best with the next exciting stage of his career at a leading global l asset manager and can assure all investors that the team remain absolutely committed to continuing the great work” concludes Mike.

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iRate® is Lonsec’s award-winning investment research portal, providing financial professionals with access to their range of financial product research, ratings and analytical tools. iRate® is powered by one of Australia’s largest investment research and consulting teams and helps to deliver investment research needs in the one portal. In addition to providing managed fund and super fund research, iRate® also offers portfolio construction and comparison tools that can help advisers streamline their processes and meet their best interest duty and compliance obligations.

Garry Crole, InterPrac Financial Planning Managing Director, comments ‘In our evolving industry, one of our key priorities is working with a research house that has an extensive range of investment and advice solutions. Partnering with Lonsec will help broaden and strengthen the investment research capabilities for all our advisers.’

Lonsec CEO Michael Wright says, ‘In our increasingly compliant-heavy environment, it is more important than ever for licensees to provide efficient and reliable research tools to their advisers.’

‘Qualitative research is at the heart of what we do at Lonsec and we have built iRate® to support the research needs of all Australian advisers. We are delighted to come on board as InterPrac’s new research partner across their entire dealer group and in doing so, assist all of their advisers to have more informed and insightful conversations with their clients.’

In addition to iRate®, Lonsec also supports the evolving needs of licensees and advisers through its investment consulting, tailored portfolios, managed accounts and its dedicated transition consultants who assist practices across the country in transforming their businesses.

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Mike Wright

Research House Lonsec has announced significant changes to its working policies, in response to the insights gained during the COVID shutdown and feedback from its staff.

The necessity of working from home during the pandemic showed that staff were able to successfully carry out their regular daily tasks from remote locations. It has helped redefine what time in the office actually looks like and what purpose it serves.

Whilst Lonsec still believes that genuine one-to-one interaction with colleagues is extremely valuable in building culture, relationships and sharing knowledge and ideas, this does not need to be every day. As a result, the company is permanently moving to a hybrid model, of at least two days in the office each week, and working from home the other days.  For some roles, that do not require regular attendance in the office, employees are able to request a move to ‘remote’ locations and this has resulted in some staff now being located in Queensland.

This ability to work from ‘anywhere’ for short periods, has been extended to all staff, with them now having the option to work from anywhere in the world, for up to 4 weeks per year. This has been particularly welcomed by the many Lonsec team members not originally from Australia, or with family overseas. In further recognition of Lonsec’s cultural diversity, allowance has been made for those team members who may celebrate religious festivals other than those typically recognised with an Australian public holiday, by allowing them to work current public holidays and take off dates of their choosing.

Chief Executive Officer, Michael Wright said “considerable thought and time was put into developing our Lonsec@Work program. We believe strongly in supporting our employees’ broader wellbeing and believe that these significant, and industry leading benefits will enable us to attract and retain the best employees, and to genuinely allow staff to choose and enjoy the work life balance that works best for them”.

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