Arthur Kallos

National dealer group Spark Financial has announced its participation in the upcoming Adventure All Stars TV series, a global philanthropic initiative which donates proceeds to Australian charities.

Spark Financials’ involvement follows its recent announcement that it has transitioned to a profit-for-purpose business model, with 100 per cent of its profits donated to nominated charity partners.

Six advisors from the Spark Financial network have been selected to take part in the series, which is broadcast in 25 countries to an audience of 100 million people. These include Simran Dhillon, Tim Lee, Shane Isbester, Dan Diprose, Josh Eisemann, and John Cachia who, as part of the program, will be transported to a secret destination to undertake a week of adventure. Filming takes place 20-25 August 2023.

As part of the pre-filming requirements, all cast members raise funds and awareness for a nominated charitable cause. All proceeds from the six participating advisers will be distributed to Spark Financial Group’s philanthropic partner, Financial Basics Community Foundation.

According to Spark Financial chief executive, Arthur Kallos, the ethos of the Foundation closely reflects that of Spark Financial.

“The Foundation embodies Spark Financials’ belief in the power of financial literacy and providing educational resources to young Australians from an early age.

“We are driven by our commitment to improve financial literacy standards among young people, including those who are disadvantaged.

“Our participation in Adventure All Stars reflects these core values. By donating all proceeds to the Foundation, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and communities,” he said.

Prior to the commencement of filming, all cast members raise funds for a designated charitable cause which, in turn, has earned them a role in the TV series. Unlike traditional experiential or reality TV shows, Adventure All Stars cast members do not receive appearance fees, ensuring all net proceeds are directed to charity.

“Adventure All Stars isn’t just about showcasing destinations; it’s about inspiring action. Through this program, our advisors are actively participating in an adventure that resonates with our ethos of making meaningful contributions to society,” said Mr Kallos.

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Damien Kirby and Tennille Catchpole have been appointed to the newly created role of advice and compliance coach in the southern region and northern region respectively. The role is intended to strengthen communication between the group’s 80 financial advisers and executive, as well as assisting with the delivery of client service and practice management.

Further, in recognition of the increased industry focus on governance, Spark Financial Group has also announced the expansion of Shane Isbester’s role within the group to head of professional standards and governance.

Under the expanded remit, Mr Isbester will focus on AFSL policy and governance, Quality of Advice Review response and integration, adviser onboarding, and the audit function.

Head of practice development, Cathy Kildea, will also take on the additional role of advice and compliance coach, serving newly recruited financial advice practices.

According to founder and CEO, Arthur Kallos, the appointments have been made at a critical juncture in both the growth trajectory of Spark Financial and the evolution of the financial advice sector.

“As Spark Financial continues to prioritise its mission of delivering quality advice to clients, the addition of Damien and Tennille to the team along with the expanded remits of Shane and Cathy, will be of great value to our adviser base and their clients.

“Ensuring we have the necessary guidance and coaching in place will go some way in setting up our advice practices amid an ever-changing regulatory environment.

“On behalf of the organisation, I would like to extend a warm congratulations to Damien, Tennille, Shane and Cathy, and look forward to seeing their contributions to Spark Financial,” he said.

All appointments are effective from July 2023.

The appointments follow Spark Financial’s recent announcement that it has transitioned to a profit-for-purpose operating model. The Group will be donating 100 per cent of its profits to nominated charity partners, which will improve financial literacy among young Australians.

The Spark Legacy Program will provide several mechanisms that allow its advisors to participate in several initiatives that positively impact their local communities and drive meaningful change, including those relating to financial hardship, financial abuse and mental health issues.

Under the profit-for-purpose model, the Spark Legacy Program agrees to support financial literacy and well-being through easy-to-understand products and services, and appropriate tools and resources to facilitate understanding and decision making about financial products and services.

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